Tadej Pogacar ruled out of season after Vuelta crash

Cycling superstar Tadej Pogacar has been ruled out for the remainder of the 2026 season following a severe crash during the Vuelta a España. The five-time Tour de France champion sustained a neck fracture, a broken collarbone, and a concussion during a fall on the eighth stage of the race. His team, UAE Team Emirates-XRG, announced that Pogacar will not return to competition until 2027 to ensure a full recovery, though he has signed a contract extension through 2032.

Pogacar’s absence has fundamentally shifted the dynamics of the Vuelta. Enric Mas of Movistar currently holds the red jersey and is pursuing his first overall victory in the race. Other contenders, including Primož Roglič of Red Bull - BORA - hansgrohe, remain in contention as the race enters its final stages, which include a 32 km time trial and demanding mountain climbs.

The injury prevents Pogacar from defending his title at the World Championships in Montreal and participating in the European Championships in Ljubljana and Il Lombardia.