Pogacar diagnosed with concussion, broken collarbone and neck fracture after Vuelta crash

UAE Team Emirates-XRG confirmed the extent of the world champion's injuries on Saturday evening after Pogačar underwent a full medical assessment in hospital.

The Slovenian also suffered multiple abrasions in the crash, but the team said no other major injuries had been detected and, crucially, there was no neurological damage.

"Unfortunately, Tadej suffered a heavy crash during today's stage and was unable to continue the race," UAE medical director Dr Adrian Rotunno said.

"He is stable, and following a thorough medical assessment at hospital, Tadej has been diagnosed with a concussion, displaced left clavicle fracture, a stable C7 cervical fracture, and multiple abrasions. Fortunately, no other major injuries and no neurological fallout."

Pogačar will require surgery on his fractured collarbone, although that procedure will not take place immediately.

According to Rotunno, Pogačar's collarbone surgery has been delayed because of concussion precautions. He remains stable and under the care of UAE's medical team, with another update expected after surgery. UAE has not given a timeline for his recovery.

The crash happened with 32 kilometres remaining on stage 8, when Pogačar hit a large rock at the side of the road and went down heavily. He initially wanted to continue but was forced to abandon due to pain.

Before the crash, Pogačar had won three stages and led the Vuelta by 3:50 over Enric Mas. He was well on course to complete his Grand Tour set by adding the Vuelta to his victories at the Tour de France and Giro d’Italia, before the crash brought his race to an end and marked the first Grand Tour abandonment of his career.