The Slovenian cyclist Tadej Pogacar, who was wearing the red jersey of leader, abandoned the Vuelta a España after suffering a strong fall in the eighth stage. The accident, which occurred about 32 kilometers from the finish between Puçol and Xeraco, left him with a cerebral concussion, a displaced fracture of the left collarbone and a stable cervical injury at the C7 vertebra.
The UAE Team Emirates team reported that Pogacar also presents multiple abrasions, but his condition is stable and, according to medical evaluation, he does not present other serious injuries or neurological sequelae. The medical report from Dr. Adrian Rotunno, team medical director, confirmed that the collarbone scar will require surgery, although the procedure will be postponed due to the cerebral concussion.
After the accident, the rider attempted to rejoin the race, but the pain in the left arm prevented him from continuing. He was taken to a hospital in Valencia by ambulance to complete the corresponding studies. The abandonment represents an unprecedented fact in the professional career of the Slovenian, who had never had to retire from a stage race since his debut in the UCI circuit.
Impact on the general classification
With Pogacar’s departure, the general classification is rebalanced. The Spanish Enric Mas took over the leadership, with a one-minute advantage over the Slovenian Primoz Roglic and 1:11 over the Austrian Felix Gall. Mas expressed his regret for the accident and wished a speedy recovery for the Slovenian champion.
The Movistar team also recognized the importance of the situation and assured that the team will try to defend the red jersey during the next stages. The Frenchman Bryan Coquard, from the Cofidis team, won the eighth stage with a sprint that gave him 3 hours, 47 minutes and 6 seconds, while Mads Pedersen and Jordi Meeus occupied the second and third places.
Consequences for the world cycling
Pogacar’s retirement leaves the Vuelta in a new phase of competition. The cyclist, winner of five Tours de France, was considered the favorite to complete the triple crown of grand tours. The world cycling community remains attentive to his medical evolution, while the teams adjust their strategies for the final phase of the race.
Credits: deultimominuto.com
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