Alpecin-Fenix, in agreement with the UAE Tour organiser, have decided to withdraw its team from the race, after a staff member tested positive for COVID-19.
The decision is aimed at safeguarding the race bubble and ensuring the safe continuation of the race.
The team was notified of one positive result from the round of tests conducted on Sunday evening (February 21).
"The person immediately went into isolation, and all those who came into contact with this person are self-isolating, in compliance with the protocol measures put in place by the race organisers and UAE Health Authorities", said an official statement.
"All team members will undertake further tests in the coming days, while they remain in isolation," it added.
One staff member tested positive for Covid-19 in tests conducted Sunday evening, 21 February, & immediately went into isolation, in compliance with protocols put in place by race organisers and UAE health authorities. All those in contact with this person are self-isolating.
Organisers of the UAE Tour and the UAE Health Authorities have implemented rigorous protocols prior to and throughout the event, including frequent testing for all riders and staff, in order to maintain the highest safety standards and to protect the health of all those involved.