Richard Calapaz (Ineos Grenadiers) tested positive for COVID-19 and abandoned the Tour de la Provence.

Carapas, who is from Ecuador, said he showed no symptoms, but on the second day of the race in France, a routine test revealed that he was infected with the virus.

"Unfortunately, due to the positive COVID test, Richard Carapas will not be able to start at the Tour de la Provence.

"Ritchie is currently symptom free.

The retirement of the former Giro d'Italia champion will hamper Ineos' rapid march to the Tour de la Provence, as well as the 28-year-old Ritchie's own return to the Giro in May.

The British team won Thursday's prologue time trial against Filippo Ganna and Friday's first stage against Elia Viviani.

Kalapas was part of a 22-man breakaway that cut through the crosswind and stayed away until the finish.

Ganna still leads the race, but is expected to lose the jersey at Sunday's summit finish in Montagne de Lure.