BRUSSELS — The Belgian cycling team Soudal-Quick Step has decided to pull its development team from the forthcoming Tour of Rwanda due to concerns regarding safety in the region, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in neighboring Congo.

Since late January, around 3,000 individuals have lost their lives and nearly an equal number have sustained injuries in eastern Congo, where the M23 rebels, reportedly receiving backing from Rwanda, have recently taken control of the critical city of Goma.

Jurgen Foré, CEO of Soudal-Quick Step, expressed the team’s worries in an interview with Belgian broadcaster Sporza on Friday. He noted that the staff had particular concerns about the violence occurring near locations that are significant for the start and finish lines of one of the stages of the race, scheduled to unfold from February 23 to March 2.

“We began reviewing the guidance from the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Monday, which highlighted several points of concern, particularly regarding the area close to the Goma border,” stated Foré.

In response, the organizers of the Tour of Rwanda reassured participants by mentioning that there had only been “one instance recently where the fighting briefly impacted those living on the Rwandan side of the border,” emphasizing that all necessary precautions have been taken to prevent a recurrence.

They further noted that life in Rwanda remains “normal” and assured that “riders, teams, and supporters can expect a safe and enjoyable event.”

Rwanda is set to host the cycling Road World Championships from September 21 to 28, showcasing its commitment to the sport despite the regional unrest.