The Colombian Cycling Federation has asked the government for permission to secure charter flights to transport professional riders to Europe ahead of the start of the UCI (International Cycling Union) revised road season.

The Colombian government banned all international flights until August 31 amid a coronavirus outbreak. However, the Tour de France is scheduled to begin on August 29. Athletes had hoped to receive special exemptions from the government.

Defending champion Egan Bernal (Team Ineos), hopeful Nairo Quintana (Arkea Samsic), and Rigoberto Urán (EF Pro Cycling) are among those who need special permission to leave the country.

Team Medellín, led by Oscar Sevilla, also hopes to leave Colombia for the Tour of Lake Chintay starting July 26 and the Volta a Portugal starting July 29.

Team director José Julián Velázquez told Zeekroland, "[Monday] I got a nice call from the president of the Colombian Cycling Federation. He is applying to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Sport for a special permit and is asking for possible charter flights for all the cyclists who have to travel to Europe in July.

"There are many cyclists like Egan, Nairo and Rigo who have to go to the Tour in July. We will all be on the same flight to our respective competitions.