Pogačar withdraws from Vuelta after crash, season goals in doubt
Cyclingnews reported that Tadej Pogačar withdrew from the Vuelta a España on 25 August after a high-speed crash that caused a broken collarbone, a stable C7 cervical fracture and a concussion, leading to surgery and casting doubt on his participation in the World Championships and other end-of-season goals. Outside Magazine noted that earlier in the race Pogačar had narrowly avoided a crash on a steep descent during stage 6 and had criticised officials for refusing a water bottle in the final kilometres. Cyclingnews said the peloton slowed in tribute after his withdrawal, and that he was transferred to a Barcelona hospital where surgery on his collarbone was postponed because of the concussion.
Further details from Outside Magazine described the injuries as a displaced collarbone fracture and a vertebral fracture, and highlighted the impact on his team and contract negotiations. Cyclingnews later added that team boss Mauro Gianetti said Pogačar would undergo major surgery within two days, with his World Championships prospects still unclear.
