Following two unfortunate crashes during the UAE Tour Women, Claire Steels of Movistar Team has been diagnosed with two broken vertebrae after undergoing checkups this week. The crashes occurred during stage 1 and the lead-in to Jebel Hafeet on the penultimate stage, effectively ending her contention in the race.
Despite the setbacks, Steels’ teammates showed solidarity by dropping back to assist her after the first crash, demonstrating the team’s commitment to their GC leader. Steels will now require rest and therapy before she can resume any exercise, and the team wishes her a speedy and full recovery.
On Instagram, Steels shared her perspective, acknowledging the challenges she faces but expressing determination to accept, adapt, and appreciate the opportunities ahead. She humorously referred to her crashes as “going for the dirt in the skirt” and reflected on the importance of embracing both the highs and lows of her cycling journey.
As Steels focuses on her recovery, she plans to engage with her followers through book reviews, recipes, and rehabilitation updates, demonstrating her resilience and positive outlook on the road to recovery.
