Riders from the Austrian national team have been involved in a road accident with a bus while studying the route of the World Championships road race in Belgium.
Leila Gschwentner, who was set to compete in Saturday's junior women's road race, has been taken to hospital, a member of Austria's coaching staff has confirmed to Cyclingnews.
Another representative from the country's federation has indicated that the 17-year-old is not in life-threatening or critical condition. She remained conscious throughout but appears to have suffered a significant shoulder injury, although the full extent of her injuries have yet to be established.
It is unclear if any other riders were involved, although Gschwentner was certainly the worst affected.
The accident happened in Leuven on Wednesday morning, as the three-woman Austrian squad for the junior road race went out to recon the 15km Leuven circuit, which will be covered five times.
According to local media reports and a video posted on social media by the RobTV channel, the accident happened at a junction close to the circuit. The video also shows damage to the bus’ windscreen, suggesting there may have been significant contact with the rider.
According to Sporza, local police have confirmed the accident.
