Mark Cavendish is currently being tested for the Covid-19 coronavirus after the UAE Tour was cancelled.

The Manx star is amongst a large number of cyclists being screened for the virus after two people at the event tested positive for Covid-19 which originated in Wuhan, China in late December.

In a statement released on Thursday night, UAE Tour race organisers said: ’The Abu Dhabi Sports Council has cancelled the remaining rounds of the 2020 UAE Tour after two Italian participants had tested positive for the novel coronavirus, known as COVID-19.

’The decision has been taken to ensure protection of all the race’s participants - safety comes at the top of all priorities.

’The Ministry of Health and Prevention said that all the race’s participants, administrative staff and organisers will be examined through the continuous periodic screening being conducted.

’All needed procedures, including quarantine measures, will be taken to ensure viral suppression and curb the spread of its outbreak in coordination with all health and other authorities concerned in the country.

’The ministry added that all the necessary precautions to ensure highly efficient preventive measures are being taken, including check-ups and observation of people in contact with patients, to guarantee protection of the society and its safety and preserve public trust.’

Cavendish was one of several British riders competing in the UAE Tour alongside multiple Tour de France winner Chris Froome, Adam Yates, Alex Dowsett, James Knox and Charlie Quarterman.

After the announcement, Cav’s Bahrain McLaren Tweeted: ’We’ve been informed that the remainder of the @uae_tour has been cancelled due to #Coronavirus.

’The health of our riders and staff is our top priority, so we are undertaking immediate measures to safeguard their wellbeing.

’We wish anyone affected by the virus a speedy recovery.’