Concussion, and shoulder and cervical fractures; Tadej Pogačar's injuries confirmed by team doctor after Vuelta crash
Slovenian crashed out of the Grand Tour on stage eight and is unlikely to ride the world championships next month
Tadej Pogačar, the World Champion, was involved in a severe crash during today's Vuelta stage and was forced to withdraw from the race. The UAE Team Emirates Medical Director confirmed his injuries, which include a concussion, a displaced left clavicle fracture, a stable fracture in the C7 cervical vertebra, and multiple abrasions.
While there were no neurological issues, Pogačar will need surgery for his clavicle, which will be postponed due to concussion protocols. The medical team will provide further updates after the surgery. Considering the timeline of his injuries, it is almost certain that Pogačar will miss the upcoming UCI Road World Championships in Montreal, Canada, scheduled for September 27.
This crash marks Pogačar's first Grand Tour retirement, having previously finished third in the 2019 Vuelta a España. He has had a remarkable career, winning the Tour de France five times and the Giro d'Italia once, with no other retirements in his professional career. The cause of the crash remains unknown, although debris on the road has been suggested.
Brian Coquard of Team TNT won the stage that day, and Enric Mas (Movistar) took the race lead, earning the red leader's jersey. However, in an act of respect for Pogačar, Mas decided not to wear the jersey on the podium.
Written by urgent.news from Cycling Weekly's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
This story
This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.
