Belgian Van Gils has joined the list of drivers withdrawing due to Covid-19

Belgian rider Maxim Van Gils has become the fourth rider to leave the Tour de France after contracting the coronavirus.

Van Gils’ Lotto-Dstny team said on Tuesday that he has tested positive and showed mild symptoms on the rest day which was Monday.

Denmark’s Michael Mørkøv, Juan Ayuso of Spain and Britain’s Thomas Pidcock had previously left the Tour due to Covid-19.

Meanwhile, Former Tour winner Geraint Thomas has also tested positive but is continuing the race which ends on Sunday.

Coronavirus tests are not mandatory at the Tour, and record stage winner Mark Cavendish told German broadcasters ARD he know of several riders who were continuing despite positive tests.