Tadej Pogacar 'lucky' to only have a broken wrist after freak crash at Liege-Bastogne-Liege
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Published 24/04/2023 at 15:48 GMT
Liege-Bastogne-Liege was billed as a head-to-head between Tadej Pogacar and Remco Evenepoel – but fans were denied the showdown after the Slovenian crashed out. Posting on Instagram, Pogacar congratulated his rival on victory and said he hoped to be back in action soon. Pogacar was gunning for the Ardennes sweep at the Monument, having won Amstel Gold and La Fleche Wallonne.
Liege-Bastogne-Liege highlights: Evenepoel storms to memorable triumph
Tadej Pogacar (UAE Team Emirates) admits he is “lucky” to have only broken his wrist after a freak crash at Liege-Bastogne-Liege on Sunday.
The Slovenian experienced a front blow-out with 185km remaining after the rider in front of him, Mikkel Honore (EF Education-EasyPost), hit the same pothole and suffered a double puncture. Both riders hit the deck at speed and were unable to continue, ending Pogacar’s hopes of emulating Philippe Gilbert’s Ardennes clean sweep.
He had successful surgery on his left wrist on Monday, with the 24-year-old now expected to shift his attention to the Tour de France in July. Pogacar won the Tour in 2020 and 2021 before being ousted from the yellow jersey by Jonas Vingegaard and Jumbo-Visma.
“Well, s*** happens. I am lucky it is just a broken wrist, considering [the] crazy crash that happened. I really wish the best recovery to Mikkel Frolich Honore who went down way harder than me,” Pogacar wrote on Instagram.
“It’s hard to describe how happy I am to receive such a support and help from all the fans, family, friends, UAE Team Emirates and especially hospital staff. I am truly amazed and so grateful for that.
“I hope to see you all really soon. Congrats to Remco Evenepoel for the victory, our battle will wait until next time.”
With Pogacar forced to abandon, Remco Evenepoel (Soudal–QuickStep) defended his title comfortably.
Speaking after his latest swashbuckling victory, Evenepoel, who himself now has eyes on the Giro d’Italia, said: “I heard a nasty noise – a horrible noise – and saw that someone had crashed pretty badly.
“I want to show all my support to Tadej and I hope he gets well soon. But that’s racing – and I’ve had moments like this in my career.”
Pogacar arrived at Liege-Bastogne-Liege in incredible form having won his last three races: Tour of Flanders, Amstel Gold Race and La Fleche Wallonne.
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