Finlay Tarling (19), brother of Josh Tarling, died after collision with a vehicle at Tour of Portugal

The cycling world is in mourning following the death of Finlay Tarling. The 19-year-old Briton lost his life in an accident during the eighth stage of the Tour of Portugal. He was riding there for Team NSN’s development squad. Tarling was the younger brother of former European time trial champion Josh Tarling, who rides for Netcompany INEOS.

NSN announced the cyclist’s death in a press release on X. “It is with heavy hearts that we announce the death of Finlay Tarling during the Tour of Portugal today. Fin was a much-loved member of our team, but above all, he was a son, a brother, and a friend to so many people. He will be deeply missed. Our condolences go out to Fin’s parents, Michael and Dawn, his brother Josh, and everyone who called him a friend.”

The organizers of the Tour of Portugal also issued a statement. “The organizers deeply regret having to announce that British cyclist Finlay Tarling, of the NSN Development Team, has died as a result of a serious accident during the 8th stage of the race, between Melgaço and Fafe. At this time of deep sorrow, the organizers of the Tour of Portugal and the Portuguese Cycling Federation express their sincere condolences to Finlay Tarling’s family, his teammates, the NSN Development Team, and all his friends and loved ones.”

The eighth stage was not completed. ‘In light of this tragic event, the race will be neutralised until the finish in Fafe and, out of respect and in mourning, the podium ceremony scheduled for today will not take place. The organisers will provide any further information as soon as circumstances permit.’

Not much is known yet about the nature of the accident. It is clear, however, that Tarling collided with a car. A Bola reports that the vehicle had ignored the signs and entered the course travelling in the opposite direction. Other sources report that the young Briton collided with a stationary car.

The youngest Tarling was also regarded as a gifted time-trialist. He finished third in the British Under-23 Time Trial Championships this summer. After spending two years riding for the Dutch team Willebrord Wil Vooruit, he signed a contract with the Israel Premier Tech Academy in 2025.