Pogačar Reveals Three Broken Vertebrae From Vuelta Crash

Overview

• The crash on August 29 during stage 8 of La Vuelta left Tadej Pogačar with a concussion, a displaced left clavicle fracture and three broken vertebrae in the lower neck and upper back.
• Initial exams identified only a C7 fracture but a follow-up scan in Slovenia revealed additional breaks at T1 and T2 about two weeks after the accident.
• Pogačar describes two brutal weeks after the crash with inner-ear disruption, vertigo, nausea and deep mental distress, which delayed his ability to shower, move safely and train.
• He has ended his 2026 season, has resumed structured training and physiotherapy in Monaco, reports no major ongoing pain, and remains cautious about further falls or heavy loads.
• The champion has publicly called on race organizers and the UCI to improve road cleaning, signage and finish-zone design to reduce hazards such as turns, speed bumps and roundabouts in final metres.