The Cult Energy cycling team have been forced to withdraw from the Tour du Haut Var race in France after the theft of their bikes and equipment.
The team had Fabian Wegmann finish fourth on the opening stage of the race which was won by AG2R's Ben Gasteur in 4.11.15 and had locked away their bikes and equipment in a team truck.
However, some time between Saturday night and Sunday morning, the truck was broken into and the entire contents stolen.
“It’s just devastating. We had a car parked in front of the back of the truck, so the thieves somehow must have moved the car and then broke the lock to the truck. They stole everything. Bikes, wheels and all our equipment.
Now, we’re waiting for the police to show up and start their investigation. We won’t be racing today and I reckon it’s doubtful that we will be ready for next week’s Het Nieuwsblad. I’m hoping for a miracle,” said Cult Energy's DS, Michael Skelde
Last year in the same race, Team Sky were targetted by thieves.