The Bahrain McLaren (open in new tab) team will not start the sixth stage of the Paris-Nice (open in new tab) race due to concerns about the spread of the coronavirus Covid-19 in France.

A staff member from Beulah-Hansgrohe (open in new tab) was taken by ambulance to the hospital late Thursday night, but was later discharged after French doctors believed his symptoms did not indicate he was infected with the coronavirus.

"During the night, one of our employees showed symptoms of a cold," Bora Hansgrohe confirmed.

"According to the authorities, no further action was necessary. Nevertheless, the team decided to isolate the employee as a precautionary measure and to continue actively monitoring the situation to ensure maximum safety for all involved."

With more European countries taking stricter measures to contain the spread of the coronavirus, teams no longer wish to remain in Paris-Nice and continue racing. Most other sports in France have already suspended all activity.

On Thursday evening, French President Emmanuel Macron addressed the nation and announced that schools would be closed and public travel restricted in an effort to curb the spread of the coronavirus.

Race organizer ASO announced late Friday that the Paris-Nice race would end on Saturday with the seventh stage from Nice to Valdebroure-la-Cormiane.

"This decision was made in the context of the intensified fight against the spread of the coronavirus and cancels the final stage, which was originally scheduled to take place on Sunday around Nice," the ASO announced.

Bahrain McLaren was the first team to announce that it would cancel the Paris-Nice race before the ASO decided to shorten the final stage after tense talks between teams, riders, and organizers.

According to Het Nieuwsblad, the CPA Riders Association expressed concern about the continuation of the race and the issue of riders and team staff returning home.

It appears that 11 teams voted to continue the race and 5 voted against, but it is unclear if the race will continue. A compromise was eventually reached, and it was decided to end the race on Saturday, avoiding the final stage around Nice on Sunday.

"Team Bahrain McLaren regretfully announced today its withdrawal from the 2020 Paris-Nice road race.

"After consultation with the team's riders, medical staff and other interested parties, we have decided to repatriate all team staff home as soon as possible, given the rapidly increasing public health risks associated with the Covid-19 virus. This precautionary measure is an urgent priority given the restrictions on movement throughout Europe and the health of the entire team.

"Team Bahrain McLaren would like to thank the UCI, ASO, AIGCP and the competing teams for their understanding and support. Team Bahrain McLaren would like to thank the UCI, ASO, AIGCP and the competing teams for their understanding and support.