Tadej Pogacar reveals three fractured vertebrae from Vuelta crash

Tadej Pogacar has revealed that his high-speed crash during the Vuelta a Espana in August left him with three fractured vertebrae, admitting that he is simply happy to be alive following the severe accident. The Slovenian star was wearing the red jersey and on course to win the Spanish Grand Tour for the first time when a stage eight crash brought a premature end to his season.

Initial medical reports following the incident indicated that the UAE Team Emirates rider had suffered a concussion, a broken left collarbone, and a stable C7 cervical fracture alongside various cuts and bruises. However, a follow-up computed tomography scan in Slovenia revealed two additional broken vertebrae in the T1 and T2 positions.

Reflecting on the extent of his injuries, Pogacar admitted that discovering the full severity of the spinal damage shifted his perspective entirely. He explained that he was ultimately relieved to have avoided competing in the European Championships, noting that realising he had broken three vertebrae left him feeling fortunate to be standing.

The 28-year-old opened up about the mental toll exacted by the crash and the subsequent surgery, which was delayed by two days while he remained bedridden. He described feeling profoundly depressed during the initial weeks of his recovery, struggling with concussion-related dizziness and nausea that required assistance from team medical staff for basic daily necessities.

Detailing his post-operative state, Pogacar explained that coming out of the anesthesia brought no immediate relief, and his low mood persisted while confined to his home. He acknowledged that his partner, Urska Zigart, faced a difficult time with him during the opening fortnight as he battled feelings of isolation and mental fatigue.

The recovery process improved significantly once the multi-time Grand Tour winner was able to resume light physical activity, starting with sessions on a home trainer and daily physiotherapy. He described the rehabilitation as a daily psychological battle, fluctuating between bursts of high energy and days where he struggled to maintain motivation.

Pogacar confirmed that he no longer experiences discomfort from his injuries and has resumed a normal routine, though he maintains strict precautions regarding heavy lifting with his left arm and neck. He has since returned to training in Monaco, incorporating runs and swimming sessions to build a solid physical base ahead of the upcoming winter period.

Looking ahead to the future, Pogacar is preparing for another demanding season on the professional circuit while reflecting on a challenging rehabilitation period that ended his dominant 2026 campaign prematurely. His return to full training marks a crucial step forward as UAE Team Emirates plans his competitive calendar for the following year.