Saints legend Francis Benali forced to retire from Iron Fran Challenge for Cancer Research

The decision to medically retire Franny while he seeks further medical attention was taken yesterday morning after recommendations from his sports therapist.

It is not yet known if the 50-year-old will be able to continue the challenge.

A spokesperson for IronFran told the Daily Echo that they are "still waiting for an update" as to whether or not Franny's challenge can continue but did confirm that members of the public have volunteered to run the rest of the challenge on Franny's behalf.

A spokesperson for IronFran yesterday morning said: “Medically we have been forced to make the regrettable decision to retire Franny from his IronFran challenge today.

“This decision has not been taken lightly but follows the recommendation of his sports therapist.

"This morning Franny will receive further medical assessment from doctors in the hope that he will be able to return to complete his epic challenge tomorrow and return home to Southampton this weekend.

“Franny has been fully involved in making this decision but is obviously hugely disappointed to not be back in the pool and on the road today.

“This is not Fran quitting, this is a medical decision and his family and support team have decided they will continue IronFran on his behalf today – swimming, cycling and running for Franny.

"We would urge everyone to continue to show their support and turn out and cheer the team on and help Franny get to his £1m goal for Cancer Research UK.”

The 50-year-old had aimed to complete seven Ironman-distance triathlons in as many days, starting in Manchester on Monday.

He expected to spend up to 18 hours a day completing a 2.4 mile swim, a 112-mile cycle and a 26.2-mile run.

Saint fans have taken to the streets across the UK to cheer on Franny as he continues his Iron Man events in the hope of raising £1 million for Cancer Research.

The challenge is expected to finish at Southampton Civic Centre on Sunday.