Pogačar Returns to Training After Three Vertebrae Fractures

Tadej Pogačar has returned to training after a crash at the Vuelta a España left him with three fractured vertebrae, including two injuries discovered only on a follow-up scan in Slovenia. The five-time Tour de France champion said he is largely back to normal but is taking precautions as he recovers. Pogačar told The Athletic that doctors had initially identified a fracture to the C7 vertebra. A later CT scan also showed fractures to T1 and T2. He said learning the full extent of his injuries made him feel fortunate to be standing and that he was glad he had not raced at the European Championships, which he had hoped to contest. The crash occurred during Stage 8 of the Vuelta. Pogačar also sustained a fractured collarbone and concussion, according to reports on his injuries. He underwent surgery for the collarbone fracture and was ruled out of racing for the remainder of the season. His recovery was difficult both physically and mentally. Pogačar said concussion-related dizziness made standing and lowering his head difficult, and that he needed help showering. He described the first two weeks after the crash as a period when he felt mentally low. He said resuming indoor...