PARIS — A number of cycling teams announced their withdrawal from the Étoile de Bessèges stage race on Friday, citing safety issues stemming from vehicles unexpectedly driving onto the course in southern France.

Teams such as Soudal Quick-Step, Lidl-Trek, EF Pro Cycling, and Red Bull-BORA-hansgrohe expressed serious concerns about the danger posed by these vehicles that entered roads designated for the race, which were supposed to be restricted.

“We are among the teams that have opted to withdraw from today’s #EDB25 stage due to multiple incidents involving motor vehicles on the race route,” Soudal Quick-Step conveyed through a post on X.

They emphasized that the safety of their riders and staff takes precedence, deeming the situation unacceptable and opting against continuing in the event.

According to reports, incidents included a neutralization of stage three after the race came to a halt for a vehicle obstructing the peloton at a roundabout.

The safety of participants in cycling events is paramount, and the actions of the cars on the course have raised significant alarms, leading to these critical decisions by the teams involved.