Phoenix 24
Caja Rural loses one of its strongest options.
Chalon-sur-Saône | July 2026
Colombian sprinter Fernando Gaviria has withdrawn from the Tour de France after suffering a fractured left collarbone during a violent crash near the finish of stage 12. The Caja Rural–Seguros RGA rider fell with approximately 200 meters remaining while fighting for position in the final sprint.
Despite the pain, Gaviria crossed the finish line before undergoing medical examinations that confirmed the fracture. The 31-year-old had been well positioned to challenge for a strong result after finishing ninth in the previous stage.
His departure represents a major setback for Caja Rural during its historic return to the Tour. Team officials described Gaviria as one of their principal stage-winning options and confirmed that negotiations to extend his contract were already well advanced.
The Spanish team must now adjust its strategy as the race approaches the mountain stages. Gaviria leaves the Tour without completing it for the third time, but with his future at Caja Rural still appearing open.
Una caída terminó la carrera, pero no necesariamente el camino. / One crash ended the race, but not necessarily the journey.