S. Arabia, Iran, Nepal pull out of Tour de Pakistan race over security fears

Lahore, Mar. 1 (ANI): Saudi Arabia, Iran and Nepal have pulled out of the 15th Tour de Pakistan cycle race owing to safety concerns.

The News quoted a Pakistan Cycling Federation (PCF) spokesman, as saying on Sunday that the three countries had opted out of the race that begins from Peshawar today.

"Obviously they have security concerns and have pulled out for this reason but the Afghanistan team members have already reached Peshawar," the official added.

Meanwhile, the eight-member Afghanistan team, comprising five cyclists and three officials, was given a warm welcome by organizers in Peshawar after reaching the city via Torkham.

NWFP Governor Owais Ahmed Ghani will inaugurate the race, which will conclude on March 13 at the Mazar-e-Quaid, Karachi after going through eleven stages. (ANI)