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I agree, based on what I've read, but it's very difficult to know how together they were actually riding and where is the line. Though it seems they have been watched from the control cars. And they should've avoided anything that might induce doubt.
Samuli-
but it's very difficult to know how together they were actually riding
I've followed it every day, and Kim was one of three riders I know from before so I particularly followed him. Every time I checked, apart from two occasions - so say 18 out of 20 times - they were riding together. They also had multiple breaks, for food and overnight stops, where they stopped at the same place and then restarted together. Restarting together was Mike's particular red flag to show when people were not riding independently.
frank9755
After talking things out with Race Director @nelsontrees , the decision has been made that Kim Raymaekers and Pierre Arnaud Le Magnan will receive a finish and have their arrival time recorded but will not be included in the general classification. After riding together for most of the race, an incredibly strong partnership was forged that helped them get through everything the race threw at them and complete the route in 9 days 9 hours and 5 minutes. This should always be viewed as a positive. However, they also enjoyed mutual support that was not available to other solo riders and their ride cannot be counted as a true solo effort. This decision is based on first hand experience on the ground. The riders were warned that they would not be considered solo if the continued to ride together. Think of the riders behind them. Nonethless, chapeau on a very strong ride.
There's then a dozen or so posts complaining. I made a post saying I thought it was the right decision and also sent a PM to Nelson expressing support, as it can be lonely when you have made a tough call if loads of others disagree!