Richard Carapaz undergoes surgery weeks before Giro d'Italia

The Ecuadorian rider revealed that the procedure, carried out to treat a perineal condition, was not planned. “It wasn’t part of the plan, but it was handled in the best possible way,” Carapaz shared on Instagram.

According to the 2022 Giro winner, the operation was successful. “Everything went according to plan and with success. From now on, I’m fully focused on recovery and getting back to my best level for the Giro.”

With the Italian Grand Tour set to begin on May 8, Carapaz faces a tight timeline to regain full fitness.

He also expressed his appreciation for the medical support he received during the process. “I’m grateful to Dr. Reinhart and his team for guiding me through this, as well as to Axxis Hospital for their excellent work, and to everyone for the constant support.”

Despite the issue, Carapaz has already been active this season. He competed in races such as Tirreno-Adriatico and the Volta a Catalunya, where he still managed to finish inside the top ten.

Last year, Carapaz was one of the standout figures in the Giro, locked in a thrilling battle with Isaac Del Toro (UAE Team Emirates XRG) and Simon Yates (Visma Lease a Bike). The rivalry reached its climax on the iconic Finestre stage, where Carapaz and Del Toro hesitated to collaborate, allowing Yates to seize the opportunity and take the stage win. Carapaz ultimately finished third overall in the general classification.