AlUla Tour Shaken by 100km/h crash in stage 3 finale

Davide Stella (UAE Team Emirates-XRG), Laurenz Rex (Soudal Quick-Step) and Fabien Grellier (TotalEnergies) were the fallers in a crash on a steep descent with around 10km remaining, where speeds had reached over 100km/h.

Initial observations indicate the three sustained abrasions and other superficial injuries, though the full extent is not yet known, and medical assessments are ongoing.

Soudal Quick-Step posted on social media that they would have an update following the conclusion of the stage, which was eventually won by Yannis Voisard (Tudor) in an uphill sprint, putting the Swiss rider into the lead of the general classification.

The Belgian team later confirmed post-stage that Rex "sustained some abrasions but was able to finish the stage." On Friday Morning, Soudal Quick-Step released a further update confirming that after examinations, Rex had broken 3 processus spimosus in his back, and is in a stable condition but will need multiple weeks to recover before starting his rehabilitation process.

“I would like to thank the team’s doctor, the race’s medical staff and everyone at the hospital for looking after me, as well as everybody that has sent me good wishes and messages – it has been very special," said Rex in the statement. "I will now take some time to recover and hope to come back stronger later in the season.”

Grellier escaped relatively lightly, his team confirmed the following day. “Fabien did not suffer any fractures in yesterday’s crash. However, he has sustained bruising and several deep cuts, meaning he will need a few weeks of rest,” TotalEnergies said.

Stella was also forced to abandon the race, with UAE Team Emirates stating the following: "Davide fortunately escaped serious injury given the severity of the crash but suffered heavy abrasions to his back and gluteal areas. These required surgical cleaning, for which he remains in hospital under observation. He will aim to fly back to Europe in the coming days accompanied by a team doctor."