'I would never put any rider in harm on purpose' - Christen apologises to Van Gils after Jaén crash and DSQ

Christen described “a mixed day” at Clásica Jaén, expressing pride in teammate Tim Wellens’ victory but regret over the incident that marred his own finish. The Swiss rider moved to apologise directly to Van Gils in a statement posted after the race.

“I’m very happy to be part of the amazing team victory of Tim Wellens but for me personally not the end I intended after the unfortunate crash close to the finish,” Christen said. “I want to apologise to Maxim for today. I jumped for the slipstream of Tom when he started the sprint and did not see him coming on my left inside.”

Race commissaires disqualified Christen following the collision. Van Gils, who crashed heavily, suffered a fractured pelvis. Christen stressed there was no intent behind the manoeuvre.

“It was an unfortunate incident, which can happen in races,” he said. “What I know for myself is that I would never put any other rider in harm like that on purpose.”

Christen acknowledged the emotions in the immediate aftermath and wished Van Gils a swift return. “There’s a lot of emotion in my head about the situation, and I just wish from my heart to Maxim a speedy recovery and hope I can compete with him for victory again in the future.”

Wellens’ win capped a commanding display from UAE Team Emirates on the gravel and tarmac around Jaén, but the finale was overshadowed by the crash and the subsequent medical update. A recovery timeline for Van Gils has not yet been confirmed.