Sports
Alaphilippe, cycling world champion punctures lung after shocking fall
The Frenchman fell into a ditch and was the worst casualty of the accident involving more than thirty cyclists in the Liège-Bastogne race
April 25, 2022 3:39pm
Updated: April 25, 2022 4:26pm
World cycling champion Julian Alaphilippe was forced to abandon the Liège-Bastogne-Liège 2022 classic due to a severe crash 59 kilometers from the finish line. The Frenchman was treated in an ambulance and is in stable condition after one of cycling's biggest crashes so far in this season. The Quick-Step Alpha Vinyl Team rider, reigning world road champion, suffered serious injuries when one of the riders at the front of the peloton fell to the ground, causing those who were following him to also crash. One after the other, more than 30 riders went to the ground.
The one who suffered the most injuries was Alaphilippe, who could not finish the race because of the accident. His medical report indicates that he has two broken ribs and a punctured lung. On the positive side, the two-time world champion is in stable condition.
Terrifying crash at Liège-Bastogne-Liège, Julian Alaphilippe suffering broken ribs and a collapsed lung.
— James Dart (@James_Dart) April 24, 2022
Romain Bardet, from a different team, showing true sportsmanship to climb down and help, check on him pic.twitter.com/c3ylBAGZIq
"World champion Julian Alaphilippe suffered two broken ribs, a broken scapula, and a hemopneumothorax. His condition is stable, but he will have to be hospitalized for observation," reads the statement issued by his own team, the Quick-Step Alpha Vinyl Team.
Following Sunday’s crash at Liège–Bastogne–Liège, we have an update on @alafpolak1 and @IlanWilder.
— Quick-Step Alpha Vinyl Team (@qst_alphavinyl) April 24, 2022
Read more about it and join us in wishing both a full recovery: https://t.co/HZP6oCBYNM
Photo: @GettySport pic.twitter.com/1oe5zOOPFA
His compatriot Romain Bardet starred in one of the most beautiful moments of the race. The Frenchman, also involved in the massive crash, did not hesitate to come to the aid of Alaphilippe, who was lying on the side of the road. "Many thanks to Romain Bardet for taking care of Julian after the crash. He was a real gentleman," said his team.
