Maeve Plouffe Narrowly Avoids Collision with Non-Race Car at Tour of Britain Women

Australian cyclist Maeve Plouffe has spoken out after narrowly avoiding a collision with a non-race car during the opening stage of the Tour of Britain Women, an incident that underscores safety concerns within the cycling community still reeling from the death of 19-year-old British rider Finlay Tarling in a similar accident at the Volta a Portugal last week.

Plouffe, who rides for O’Shea Red Chilli Bikes, described the terrifying moment: “While the race convoy was still in sight, and I was less than two minutes down, there were cars from the general public coming at me from all directions, including one that nearly hit me on a roundabout.” She praised the later moto escort but expressed concern given the recent tragedy.

Jonathan Day, Events Director of British Cycling Ventures, which organises the Tour, responded: “We note Maeve Plouffe’s comments... and are reviewing what happened with the seriousness and empathy these comments demand. Rider safety is paramount.”

Meanwhile, Lorena Wiebes won the second stage, and Josh Tarling, Finlay’s 22-year-old brother, will compete in the Vuelta a España starting Saturday in honour of his late brother, with full family support. Their mother, Dawn, shared on Instagram: “Josh has chosen to do so in honour of his brother Fin... Fin would be watching... and shouting as he competed.”