Paul Seixas Withdraws from Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes After Crash

Teenage French cycling star Paul Seixas was forced to abandon the Tour Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes on Sunday after failing to recover from injuries sustained in a high-speed crash the previous day. The 19-year-old, who races for the Decathlon CMA CGM team, withdrew early in the eighth and final stage, ending his hopes of moving up from sixth place overall.

Seixas had vowed to start Sunday's mountainous stage following a dramatic display of resilience on Saturday. During Stage 7, he crashed heavily on a descent at approximately 70 kilometers per hour, sliding up to 30 meters along the asphalt. He suffered multiple abrasions to his hands, arms, and legs but, aided by a determined team effort, chased for nearly 70 kilometers to rejoin the main group. He ultimately finished the stage in seventh place.

Speaking after the crash, Seixas took full responsibility, describing it as a stupid mistake resulting from misjudging a corner while trying to overtake another rider. He credited his gloves with preventing more severe hand injuries, stating they were wrecked by the impact. Despite his determination to continue, the physical toll became apparent shortly after the start of Sunday's final...