Race news
Ethan Hayter hit with huge fine after middle finger gesture at Tirreno TT amid motorbike frustration
British time trial champion Ethan Hayter delivered one of the fastest gestures of frustration in recent cycling memory during the opening stage of Tirreno-Adriatico. While racing at full speed against the clock, the Soudal Quick-Step rider aimed a middle finger at a passing TV motorcycle. Race officials did not let the moment slide and issued an immediate penalty after the stage.
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Hayter was fined 500 Swiss Francs and lost 25 points in the UCI rankings after commissaires ruled that his actions constituted unsportsmanlike conduct. The incident occurred during the opening individual time trial in Lido di Camaiore, where riders blasted along a flat coastal course at high speeds.
The 27-year-old Brit was captured on television cameras as he sped through the course at around 54 kilometers per hour. As a TV motorbike rode alongside him, Hayter visibly expressed his frustration by raising his middle finger toward the camera crew.
Race officials later confirmed the sanction in the official jury report. The report listed Hayter’s offense simply as “unsportsmanlike conduct,” though the footage circulating among viewers left little doubt about what prompted the penalty.
Despite the distraction, Hayter still delivered a competitive ride in the opening test against the clock. He finished eighth on the stage, 32 seconds behind Italian specialist Filippo Ganna, who powered to victory in the time trial.
Ethan Hayter spoke to Bici Sport about the hand gesture he made during the stage. “I was frustrated because the motorbike was riding too close to me. That wasn’t necessary,” the Brit said.
“Of course I shouldn’t have made that gesture, but especially in a time trial there are rules about how close a motorbike can come to you.”
“I also have to admit that I was frustrated because my intermediate time wasn’t good.”
“I’ll pay the fine,” Hayter added. “It’s a significant amount, but I can’t complain now.”
