Dan Martin (Cannondale-Garmin) and Tejay van Garderen (BMC Racing) were amongst a number of riders forced to retire from the Vuelta following a massive crash with 50 kilometres left of the stage. The two riders have been taken to hospital.
Martin had shown he was in great form in the race, having moved up to 3rd on GC, and coming close to a stage win. The news may also have a big impact on the Irish team’s plans for the forthcoming World Championships. It has been a very difficult season for the Irishman whereby injuries suffered in a crash.
His team confirmed the news on Twitter.
Tejay van Garderen also looked to be badly injured and it appeared that it may have been a broken collarbone. Van Garderen had been sitting in third place in the Tour de France last month when he was forced out due to illness, and he had been hoping that the Vuelta would help to rescue a difficult season.
The crash took place with about 50 kilometres remaining. Other who came down included Frank Schleck (Trek) and Nacer Bouhanni (Cofidis). Kris Boeckmans (Lotto-Soudal) was also badly hurt in the crash and forced to retire.
