UAE Team Emirates Manager Apologizes for Incident Leading to Rubio's Tour de France Withdrawal

Safety First: A Manager's Regret and a Rider's Unexpected Exit

The Alpe d'Huez Incident: A Sudden Halt and a Rider's Injury

Joxean Fernández, the team manager for UAE Team Emirates-XRG, has come forward to clarify his role in the accident that led to Movistar's Einar Rubio being severely injured and withdrawing from the Tour de France. The incident occurred during Friday's challenging Alpe d'Huez stage, just as the race was nearing its conclusion.

Rubio's Abrupt Departure and the Aftermath

Rubio, a key figure in the day's breakaway, was positioned among the front-runners in the race's final kilometers. The collision, which saw Rubio crash into the back of the UAE team car, happened shortly after Tadej Pogačar, the eventual stage winner, overtook him. The impact was significant enough to shatter the car's rear window, causing serious facial injuries to Rubio, who required 20 stitches. Compounding the distress, the team car proceeded without immediately assisting the fallen rider, leaving him to be tended to by onlookers.

Fernández's Explanation: A Split-Second Decision

In a public statement on his Instagram, Fernández recounted the events, explaining that his immediate braking was a direct response to a spectator suddenly running into the road directly in front of his vehicle. He emphasized that his primary concern was to prevent a more catastrophic outcome involving the fan. He stated that the chaotic environment, coupled with his focus on protecting the race leader, meant he was not fully aware of the extent of Rubio's injuries until after reaching the finish line.

Apology and Reflection on Responsibility

Fernández expressed profound remorse for the consequences of the accident, acknowledging the deep pain it caused to Rubio and his team. He highlighted the demanding nature of cycling, where critical decisions are made instantaneously, often under immense pressure, with the paramount goal of preserving human life. He also underscored the shared responsibility of spectators to ensure the safety of everyone involved in the sport.

Looking Forward: Support for Rubio and Continuous Racing

Extending his full support and best wishes to Einar Rubio, Fernández articulated his sincere hope for Rubio's swift recovery and return to competitive cycling. Despite the gravity of the situation, Fernández faced no sanctions from race officials and continued his duties in the team car for the subsequent stage, which also concluded at Alpe d'Huez, albeit via a different route.