Crash-hit Tour of Flanders Femmes: how are Reusser, Le Court, Wiebes and the others doing?

As we headed from Vollering’s press conference toward the media centre, we passed the AZ Hospital in Oudenaarde. At that exact moment, there was a steady stream of injured riders coming out of the women’s race: Brodie Chapman was wheeled onto the UAE team bus in a wheelchair, while Liv AlUla Jayco were also collecting riders who had fallen, some with limbs already wrapped and immobilised.

Reusser and Le Court were involved in a big fall just before the Koppenberg and it was immediately clear that neither of the two outside favourites could continue. After the finish, Movistar and AG Insurance-Soudal Quick-Step issued medical updates on their riders.

“Marlen has sustained a fracture of a lumbar vertebra, which will be treated conservatively. She remains in hospital under observation,” the Spanish team said of the rider who had won Dwars door Vlaanderen on Wednesday.

“Following medical examinations, it has been confirmed that Kim sustained a fracture to her wrist, which will require surgery. She will now continue her treatment at AZ Herentals, where the operation is expected to take place in the coming days,” AG Insurance-Soudal Quick-Step said.

“Kim will be closely monitored and supported by the medical team throughout her recovery. The team would also like to extend its sincere thanks to all medical staff and emergency responders for the immediate care and support Kim received after the crash.”

Victoire Berteau (Cofidis) also came away injured after a heavy crash earlier in the race. “After a crash with just over 80 kilometres to go, Victoire Berteau suffered a fractured radius. The length of her recovery is still to be confirmed,” Cofidis said.

Lorena Wiebes (SD Worx-Protime) did not make it to the finish either. “Lorena was involved in two crashes. The Dutch champion did not finish the race, but apart from abrasions and bruising, she is doing well,” SD Worx-Protime said.