Phoenix 24
A fractured collarbone and cervical injury halt another pursuit of cycling history.
XERACO, SPAIN
Tadej Pogačar will miss the remainder of the 2026 cycling season after suffering multiple injuries in a heavy crash during the eighth stage of the Vuelta a España. UAE Team Emirates-XRG confirmed that the Slovenian underwent successful surgery on his displaced left collarbone and has begun a comprehensive rehabilitation programme.
Pogačar also sustained a concussion, a stable fracture of the C7 cervical vertebra and several abrasions. His team reported no neurological damage, but the combination of injuries requires a cautious recovery. The decision rules out an accelerated return for the final major races of the year.
The crash occurred approximately 31 kilometres from the finish of the stage between Puçol and Xeraco. Pogačar lost control amid the peloton and struck the road heavily. He had led the Vuelta since its opening stage and had already won three stages, holding an advantage of almost four minutes when the accident ended his campaign.
His withdrawal also ended his attempt to complete victories in all three Grand Tours. Pogačar has won the Tour de France five times and claimed the Giro d’Italia in 2024, but the Vuelta remains absent from his record. Enric Mas inherited the red leader’s jersey following the Slovenian’s departure.
Ending the season means Pogačar will not defend his road-race world championship in Canada or contest the autumn classics. The setback arrives amid long-term stability, however, as he has extended his contract with UAE Team Emirates-XRG through 2032. At 27, recovery rather than urgency will determine his next objective.
Detrás de cada dato, la intención. / Behind every data point, the intention.