San Sebastián slip could cost Schleck a Vuelta ride
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Andy Schleck crashed early in the Clásica San Sebastián and would ultimately abandon.(Image credit: Sirotti)
Luxembourg road champion Andy Schleck (Team Saxo Bank) receives medical attention following a crash.(Image credit: Sirotti)
Andy Schleck assesses his injuries following a crash while his bike is retrieved by a mechanic.(Image credit: Sirotti)
A fall early in Saturday's Clasica San Sebastián has cast doubt over Andy Schleck's participation in this year's Vuelta a España, according to Europa Press.
Saxo Bank's Luxembourg Champion slipped on a white road marking in the wet conditions and injured his back, ruining his chances of winning the classic and possibly his hopes of more grand tour success.
Schleck had been looking towards the Vuelta to continue his strong run of form that saw him net second place overall in the Tour de France last month. The year's third grand tour begins on August 29 and the time frame for recovery may prove too small to start the Spanish event. Medical checks will be conducted to determine the required period of rehabilitation for the younger Schleck.
He wasn't alone in his misfortune, however. Rabobank rider Juan Manuel Gárate, who won the Ventoux stage in this year's Tour, also fell and broke his hand.
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