Giro d'Italia: Today's 20th stage of the Giro d'Italia was tough and was supposed to be the last mountain test for the riders of this year's Tour of Italy. In addition to the already exciting racing situation, there were chaotic scenes during the final climb. Astana pro Miguel Angel Lopez fell because of a fan running to the side and hit him in affect.
While it was all about winning the day and the pink jersey, wild scenes played out on the final climb of the 20th stage of the Giro d'Italia. A fan ran along the side of the road next to the group around Miguel Angel Lopez and probably wanted to cheer on the drivers. In doing so, he obstructed some riders and ultimately brought down the wearer of the white jersey. Of course, he was beside himself with anger and accordingly lost control of himself for a few moments. The angry Astana professional pushed the spectator to the ground and knocked his cap off his head.
– I am sorry for my emotions, but in the rush of the race, especially in the final of the queen stage it is hard to control it. Anyway, I am very sad because of the bad security in the race, it's pity I lost my chances today because this situation happened, - @SupermanlopezN #Turn
— Astana Qazaqstan Team (@AstanaQazTeam) June 1, 2019
The Colombian spoke up again via Twitter: “I apologize for my emotions, but in the rush of the race, especially in the final of a queen stage, it is difficult to control it. However, I am very sad because of the poor safety in the race. It's a shame that I lost my chances today due to this situation."
A little later he deleted the tweet because he was insulted by followers and fans.
Miguel Angel Lopez not sentenced after fight
In any case, the jury did not punish the "beating attack" and explained its decision on the grounds that it had seen human behavior in the heat of the moment. But it should be a little food for thought for ignorant fans out there, since such behavior can not only have consequences from a sporting point of view, but a fall can also endanger the health of the driver. In this case, Lopez only lost a lot of time, was able to defend his white jersey, but has to attack again in tomorrow's time trial.
What do you think about it? Is such behavior on the part of the driver understandable or maybe even justified, or should the jury take a harder line?