Carrasco and Ruiz break collarbones

By Antonio J. Salmerón and Bjorn Haake in Madrid

Two bad crashes in the final three kilometres of the Vuelta a España spoiled the day for Andalucía-Cajasur. José Ruiz and José Antonio Carrasco both broke their collarbones.

Everybody feared the finale wet roads, but eventually the sun had come out over Madrid. It was meant to be a final party to the finish line for everyone. Instead, it turned disastrous for some.

Ruiz looked stunned after the finish and had to be helped off his bike. He was immediately taken to the hospital "12 de Octubre". Carrasco also managed to cross the line by himself, despite his injuries. He was transferred to the hospital "Gregorio Marañón".

At the hospital, Carrasco was diagnosed with a broken collarbone and a broken wrist. Ruiz also broke his collarbone. Both riders were released from hospital and will recover at home.

A third rider of the team, Manuel Ortega, suffered a hit on his knee.