Joao Almeida suffered a fractured rib and multiple abrasions in a high-speed crash during stage 7 of the Tour de France, just 6km from the finish in Mûr-de-Bretagne.
The incident, caused by a tire blowout, also involved riders like Jack Haig, who abandoned the race, and Santiago Buitrago, who sustained a head injury.
Almeida, a key support for race leader Tadej Pogacar, finished over 10 minutes behind but is determined to continue. Team doctor Adriano Rotunno confirmed the rib fracture but cleared Almeida of concussion, stating he should race tomorrow.
“I want to keep helping Tadej,” Almeida said, despite visible pain and road rash.
Pogacar, who won the stage and reclaimed the yellow jersey, dedicated the victory to Almeida. The crash raises concerns for UAE’s strategy, as Almeida’s climbing ability is vital for Pogacar’s title defense.
