Metal pieces on Hamburg triathlon course cause havoc for cyclists

Several metal fragments were found on a section of the cycling course during a triathlon Ironman race in Hamburg, police said on Sunday.

Police said about 50 participants had to stop due to bike defects, while media reports said up to 150 triathletes had to interrupt their race.

The professional field, which included the finale of the women's European championship, was not affected.

A police officer said talk of a deliberate act was speculation.