Zigart Breaks Jaw in High-Speed Tour de Suisse Crash

New Delhi, India Jul 1, 2026 ALN: Slovenian rider Urska Zigart broke her jaw in a heavy crash at the start of the final kilometre of stage two of the Tour de Suisse Femmes in Locarno on Thursday.

Zigart lost control riding at high speed over a speedbump and crashed hard onto the ground, rolling and sliding a number of metres before coming to a halt on the tarmac. The incident highlights the inherent risks associated with professional , particularly during high-speed descents and sprint finishes where riders often push their limits to gain competitive advantages.

As the race unfolded, several other riders then crashed as they tried to avoid Zigart, 29, as she lay motionless in the road. Such multi-rider crashes are not uncommon in , especially when the peloton is tightly packed and racing at high speeds. The chaotic nature of these incidents often results in severe injuries, raising concerns about rider safety and the adequacy of race protocols to protect athletes during high-stakes situations.

Zigart's team, AG Insurance-Soudal, confirmed she had been taken to hospital following the crash. "After undergoing several medical assessments, Urska has been diagnosed with a fractured jaw. Fortunately, no other injuries were detected during the examinations," they added. This diagnosis is particularly concerning as jaw fractures can lead to complications, including difficulties in eating and speaking, and may require surgical intervention depending on the severity.

The team's medical staff are currently evaluating the next steps required to ensure Urska receives the best possible treatment and recovery process. At this stage, our primary focus is on her health and wellbeing. This statement underscores the team's commitment to the welfare of their athletes, which is crucial in a where the physical and mental health of riders can often be overlooked amidst the competitive pressures of racing.

Zigart's partner is fellow cyclist Tadej Pogacar - a four-time Tour de France winner - who was just about to start the day's stage at the same location in the men's Tour de Suisse. The connection between these two elite cyclists adds a personal dimension to the incident, as Pogacar not only faces the challenge of competing in a prestigious race but also grapples with the concern for his partner's health and recovery.

According to Slovenian media, Zigart was conscious after her accident and was later able to speak to 27-year-old world champion Pogacar, who is leading the general classification after the opening two stages of the men's race. This detail provides some relief, indicating that while the injuries may be serious, Zigart was stable enough to communicate with her partner, reflecting her resilience in the face of adversity.

The Tour de Suisse Femmes is an important event in women's professional , showcasing the talents of female riders on an international stage. However, incidents like Zigart's crash serve as a reminder of the challenges and dangers these athletes face. As the continues to grow, discussions regarding rider safety, race design, and the implementation of protective measures will likely become increasingly prominent in the community.

In the wake of this incident, it will be crucial for race organizers and teams to evaluate safety protocols to prevent similar accidents in the future. The community is closely watching how Zigart's recovery progresses, as her situation not only affects her career but also resonates with many athletes who face the risks inherent in competitive s.