The Flemish Association of Sports Doctors (SKA) voiced concerns on Friday about the high number of falls in professional cycling, advocating for new measures and reinforcement of existing ones.
In their press release, the SKA highlighted the potential benefits of protective jackets, currently used in motorcycling, being adopted within the cycling peloton. These lightweight jackets, designed to protect the elbows, shoulders, chest, back, and hips, don't interfere with aerodynamics.
The medical association has called upon equipment manufacturers to incorporate these protective elements into racing outfits. Furthermore, they suggest outfits should deploy an airbag to protect the neck and vital organs in the event of a fall. "This existing technology needs refining and testing more extensively before being introduced to cycling. Although the jacket might add some weight, it wouldn’t hamper the competition if all racers wore it," said the SKA.
The SKA also advocated better training in handling falls, which is currently only briefly addressed. Cyclists should learn how to tuck their chin and roll during a fall to prevent frequent injuries such as collarbone or wrist fractures. Training should also focus more on cycling techniques and bike handling.
The crash started right at the front of the peloton with Remco and the Lidl rider touching wheels. But the crash was imminent imo, they entered too fast in that tricky corner. #Itzulia2024pic.twitter.com/RNyC28yoJk
— Mihai Simion (@faustocoppi60) April 4, 2024
The sports doctors further suggested strengthening current safety regulations. Helmets should provide improved protection to the temples and face, and race routes should be better secured with safety barriers and cushions. Medical training in first aid response should also be enhanced.
This spring saw several high-profile cycling accidents, with riders like Wout van Aert, Jasper Stuyven, Jonas Vingegaard, and Remco Evenepoel suffering serious fractures.
