Cycling superstar Pogacar has surgery after Vuelta crash

Madrid - Tadej Pogacar, the renowned cycling superstar, underwent successful surgery on Monday to address a fractured collarbone following a severe crash during the Vuelta a Espana. The UAE Team confirmed that Pogacar had been cleared to undergo the procedure, although it was delayed due to the cyclist experiencing concussion from the fall.

The operation went smoothly, and Pogacar will spend several days in hospital for post-operative monitoring. The 27-year-old Slovenian will then return home to continue his recovery and rehabilitation under the guidance of the team's medical staff. The exact duration of Pogacar's absence from action remains unclear, but it is unlikely he will be fit to defend his world title in Canada in late September.

The crash occurred on the eighth stage of the Vuelta, just over 30 kilometers from the finish line in Xeraco, a town in the Valencian region. Pogacar had been leading the race by a significant margin, entering the 21-day event as the overwhelming favorite to win. According to the medical report provided by his team, Pogacar also sustained a displaced left clavicle fracture, a stable C7 cervical fracture, and multiple abrasions.

Fortunately, no other major injuries or neurological complications were reported. Pogacar, who posted a lighthearted selfie from his hospital bed the day after the surgery, accompanied by the Bee Gees' song "Stayin' Alive," expressed his gratitude for the successful procedure.