Bob Stapleton from Team Columbia HTC released the following statement-

“Mark withdraws with deep regret from the Tour of Missouri. As he has stated its’ one of his favorite events and also for team Columbia HTC.

Mark has been fighting an infection since traveling to the USA which has spread to his lungs. He has had a long and successful season and it is a team priority that his general health be protected. He is on antibiotics and will rest here in Missouri for a few days prior to returning to Europe.

We expect the same wide open racing from team Columbia HTC and the entire field for the remaining stages that we enjoyed last year.

Thank you for you constant support.”

- Bob