Chris Froome’s hopes for a strong final season have taken a major hit after the four-time Tour de France champion suffered a broken collarbone in a crash during the UAE Tour.
The 39-year-old was involved in a mass pile-up just 10km into the final stage on Sunday. His team, Israel-Premier Tech, confirmed that a CT scan revealed a fracture to his right clavicle, and he will be assessed by an orthopedic surgeon to determine whether surgery is required.
The injury raises concerns about Froome’s ability to compete in what is widely expected to be his last year in professional cycling. The two-time Olympic bronze medallist and winner of the Vuelta a España and Giro d’Italia had previously suggested he may retire after this year’s Vuelta in September.
With recovery time uncertain, Froome faces a race against time to return to form for what could be his farewell season in the sport.
