The Athletic(@TheAthletic):Cycling superstar Tadej Pogacar thought he had broken one vertebrae in his spine. In fact, it was three. Pogacar saw his season come to a terrifying halt at the Vuelta a España on August 29. He spoke exclusively to The Athletic about the mental and physical toll of recovery, his nervousness about getting back on the bike, and why the sport must do more to improve safety.

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2026.10.31 15:30

Cycling superstar Tadej Pogacar thought he had broken one vertebrae in his spine. In fact, it was three. Pogacar saw his season come to a terrifying halt at the Vuelta a España on August 29. He spoke exclusively to The Athletic about the mental and physical toll of recovery, his nervousness about getting back on the bike, and why the sport must do more to improve safety.