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Published on 2024-04-05 14:13:25
Professional cycling has recently been rocked by a series of high-speed crashes, prompting calls for the UCI, the world governing body, to step up and prioritize safety measures. Pascal Chanteur, the president of the French professional cyclists’ union (UNCP), expressed his frustration and anger over the recent incidents that have resulted in several top riders being hospitalized.
Chanteur highlighted the severity of the situation, questioning whether it would take a tragic fatality or a life-altering injury for the necessary actions to be taken. He emphasized the need for the UCI to address the issue and implement measures to enhance the safety of riders during races. Following injuries sustained by Wout van Aert, Jonas Vingegaard, and Remco Evenepoel in separate crashes, Chanteur urged the UCI to prioritize safety and make significant progress in this area.
The use of advanced materials in bike manufacturing, particularly carbon, was identified as a contributing factor to the increased number of crashes. Chanteur pointed out that the rigidity and lightweight nature of carbon components left little room for error, making crashes more dangerous. He also raised concerns about the use of disc brakes in racing and emphasized the need for changes in equipment and gear ratios to reduce the risks faced by riders.
UCI president David Lappartient acknowledged the importance of addressing safety concerns, including the debate around disc brakes and equipment advancements in cycling. While acknowledging the role of equipment in improving performance, Lappartient also noted that rider behavior played a significant role in crashes. He highlighted the need for accountability and proposed the introduction of a yellow and red card system to penalize dangerous conduct among riders.
Chanteur and Lappartient agreed that a collaborative effort was necessary to improve safety standards in professional cycling. Despite the challenges faced by riders in speaking out against safety issues, Chanteur emphasized the importance of holding cycle manufacturers accountable for their role in ensuring rider safety. He called on industry stakeholders to prioritize safety and prevent further accidents or tragic incidents in the sport.
The ongoing debate around safety in professional cycling reflects a critical need for enhanced measures to protect the well-being of riders. By addressing equipment advancements, rider behavior, and industry accountability, the UCI and cycling stakeholders can work together to create a safer environment for athletes. It is essential to prioritize safety and implement proactive measures to prevent future accidents and injuries in the sport.
Read the original article on Mail & Guardian
