Cow dung suspected in mass cyclist illness before Giro d'Italia

A bizarre and unfortunate incident has cast a shadow over the cycling world just days before the prestigious Giro d'Italia. Several riders, most notably from the Lotto-Intermarché team, have been struck down by a severe gastrointestinal illness following the Famenne Ardenne Classic held in Belgium. The suspected culprit? Cow dung. Yes, the very fields that make Belgian cycling routes picturesque may have harbored an unwelcome contaminant.

Reports suggest that the abundance of cow excrement and manure along the agricultural course, combined with damp conditions, created a perfect storm for bacterial infection. While Campylobacter is the suspected bacterium, confirmation is pending. The situation is serious enough that "half the peloton is sick," according to one rider, highlighting the widespread impact. This is more than just a minor inconvenience; it's a health crisis affecting athletes on the cusp of one of the sport's major events.

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half the peloton is sick

The Lotto-Intermarché team has been hit particularly hard, with several key riders hospitalized. Even Arnaud De Lie, the race winner and expected Giro leader, is experiencing nausea. While his participation isn't currently at risk, the team's presentation for the Giro saw only five of their eight riders on stage, underscoring the severity of the outbreak. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable challenges athletes face, even off the racecourse, and raises questions about course safety and hygiene in agricultural settings.

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He doesn't feel well, but his participation in the Giro is not at risk for now