Warning: Graphic images below
Vincenzo Nibali wasn’t the only Astana rider caught up in yesterday’s big crash in the Vuelta which happened with 30 kilometres remaining. His team-mate, Paolo Tiralongo, came down heavily in the bunch spill and photos later emerged showing the extent of his injuries.
The Italian rider suffered deep cuts both above and below his left eye and had to receive numerous stitches to both wounds. He immediately received attention from the race doctor
Despite his injuries though, he refused to pull out, and continued on in the race. He finished last on the day, over 29 minutes behind stage winner Johan Esteban Chaves. It was a great display of courage from the Italian.
He later tweeted a photo showing his stitched-up cuts, with the message “Cosmetic surgery done. I just hope that tomorrow there will not be a swollen eye. I’ve made too many sacrifices #Vuelta.”
He also later posted another message online, where he said: “My Tour of Spain did not start in the best way. I got involved in a big crash 30kms from the finish which involved at least 80 cyclists. I got a nice hit, slamming my face, and this caused the cut to the eyebrow, letting out blood profusely.”
“Despite the blow, I went back on my bike, the race doctor has given first aid and with so much willpower I arrived at the finish line. Let’s see how it goes tonight, I’m not giving up.”
Hopefully, he will be able to continue in the race.
