"You could be paralyzed for the rest of your life": The pimp warned against returning too soon after a crash on the Vuelta

Tadej Pogačar, the Slovenian cyclist who suffered a severe crash during the Vuelta a España, faces a critical decision regarding his return to competitive cycling. Medical experts have warned against rushing his comeback, citing the potential for life-altering consequences should he suffer another fall. Belgian sports physician Tom Teulingkx, president of the Belgian Sports Physicians Association and a member of the medical commission for the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), emphasized the risks associated with Pogačar's current condition following spinal injuries sustained in the crash. According to Teulingkx, a second fall could lead to catastrophic damage to Pogačar’s spine, potentially resulting in permanent paralysis. “If he falls again at the same spot, it could be much more serious,” Teulingkx stated in an interview with the Belgian media outlet HLN. He explained that a tear in the spinal cord could leave Pogačar paralyzed for the rest of his life. The doctor further noted that sending a cyclist back too soon after such an injury would be premature, especially given the time of year. “We’re near the end of August, and the season is almost over. It wouldn’t surprise me if Pogačar doesn't race this year. It would be a big loss to send him back too early.” Pogačar’s team has expressed cautious optimism about the possibility of his participation in upcoming races later this year. His representative, Alex Carera, indicated that the outcome of surgery will determine whether Pogačar can compete in major events. “Only after the operation will we know exactly how long the recovery period will last and consequently whether he can participate in the World Championships,” Carera explained. He added that while he had not spoken directly with Pogačar yet, he remained in constant communication with the leadership of UAE Team Emirates - XRG, including team director Maurizio Gennari. The team environment is described as one of disappointment and frustration, though tempered with hope. “There is a sense of defeat within the team, but they remain optimistic. Tadej’s season might not necessarily be over today,” Carera remarked. Pogačar was set to compete in three major autumn races, which include the Road World Championships in Montreal on September 27, the European Championships in Slovenia on October 4, and the Milan, San Remo on October 10. Following the crash, Pogačar underwent surgery in Barcelona, and the results of that procedure will play a crucial role in determining his future racing schedule. If the prognosis is positive, there remains a chance that Pogačar could still take part in some of the key events of the season. “If the news from Barcelona and the post-operative reports are encouraging, then maybe his participation in the World Championships, European Championships, or Milan, San Remo won’t be threatened,” Carera said. The situation highlights the precarious nature of professional cycling, where even minor incidents can have profound implications for athletes' careers and health. As the medical community and Pogačar’s team await further developments, the focus remains on ensuring that any return to competition is both safe and well-timed.