Danish rider Michael Morkov placed in ISOLATION in his hotel room and tested for coronavirus

A Danish cyclist at the Track World Championships has been placed in isolation and tested for coronavirus as officials look to stop the disease spreading to the event.

Michael Morkov had travelled to Berlin from the UAE Tour, which was cancelled after two Italian staff members tested positive for the virus.

All riders of the UAE race, including British star Chris Froome, were tested, but Morkov was already at the World Championships and was seen trackside on Thursday night celebrating Denmark winning the men’s team pursuit.

Morkov’s appearance brought fears about whether the World Championships would be able to continue, just two days into the five-day event.

But the Denmark team have now placed their rider in solitary confinement in his hotel room, where he will be tested for the virus. Should he be negative, the threat to the worlds may have passed.

Morkov is due to race in the Madison on Sunday. Spain’s Albert Torres is also due to compete in that event following the UAE Tour, but he is currently still in Abu Dhabi awaiting test results.

British Cycling said today they are in close contact with cycling governing body the UCI and until there is a confirmed issue, they will continue business as usual. Laura Kenny is due to ride later in the omnium. In Abu Dhabi, all cyclists have now been tested and will be allowed to fly home if they test negatively.