THE parents of Finlay and Josh Tarling have spoken of their pride in the brothers’ close bond after confirming their support for Josh’s decision to ride in the Vuelta a España following Finlay’s death last week.

Ffos y Ffin’s Josh Tarling, 22, will line up for the three-week Grand Tour, which starts in Monaco on Saturday, just days after his younger brother Finlay was killed during the Volta a Portugal on Friday evening.

He was racing for the NSN Development Team when he collided with a non-race vehicle during the 166.8km stage from Melgaço to Fafe. A police investigation into the fatal collision continues.

Finlay Tarling with parents Michael and Dawn
Finlay Tarling with parents Michael and Dawn (Tarling family)

Dawn and Michael Tarling said Josh had chosen to race in honour of Finlay and would do so with the full backing of his family.

In an emotional social media post, Dawn Tarling described Josh as “the most loving and supportive big brother to Fin” and said he had been a source of strength since the tragedy.

She said: “On Saturday Joshua will be riding the Vuelta. He has chosen to do so in honour of his brother Fin, with the full support of his family, surrounded by a team who have been incredibly supportive of whatever decision he made.

“I could not have wished for two boys who were closer growing up and into adulthood we have watched with pride as Joshua has been the most loving and supportive big brother to Fin.

“Following this devastating news he has been an incredible strength for us all.

“Finlay was so incredibly proud of his big brother, and would be watching nose to the tv and shouting as he competed.

“So it is right that Josh honours that love and pride by doing what Fin always loved watching him do.”

Josh will compete at the Vuelta a España for his team Netcompany Ineos.

Team director Geraint Thomas said: “It goes without saying that, as a team, we all fully support Josh in his decision to take part in the race."

Fund for young riders

A memorial fund set up in honour of Finlay has already raised more than £72,000 to support the next generation of young riders.

The campaign was launched on GoFundMe by Tarling’s agent, Jamie Barlow, following the 19-year-old’s death in a crash during the Volta a Portugal.

Finlay’s father, Michael, said the family hoped to create a lasting legacy that would help other young cyclists pursue their ambitions and experience the opportunities the sport had given his son.

The campaign states that the fund aims to support future generations of young Welsh riders, helping them discover “the freedom and confidence that a bike can give a child”.

You can donate HERE