Jumbo-Visma director Richard Plugge said: “It was a crash where the severity of the consequences was unfathomable. Now that the disciplinary case has been concluded, we can start looking forward again. We will do that together with Dylan. We are relieved that there is now perspective and clarity. We wish Fabio Jakobsen the same. The encouraging reports about his recovery do us good.”
Jakobsen was placed into an induced coma after the crash and has since undergone a surgery where part of his pelvis was removed and placed in his jaw. He is recovering well and should be back to training within a few weeks. Dylan Groenewegen has suffered a broken collarbone in the crash and has been recovering as well. The UCI announced the Dutchman will take part in “a number of events to benefit the cycling community.”
“The crash in the first stage of the Tour of Poland will forever be a black page in my career,” Groenewegen said. “During the sprint, I deviated from my line. I am sorry because I want to be a fair sprinter. The consequences were very unfortunate and serious. I am very aware of that and I hope this has been a wise lesson for every sprinter. I follow the news of Fabio’s recovery very closely. I can only hope that one day he will return completely. Closing the disciplinary matter creates clarity. That gives me the opportunity to look ahead again. I am happy about that, even though May 7 is still far away. I am happy with the support I get from Jumbo-Visma, my family and friends. Together we will work towards that day both mentally and physically.”
The crash resulted in concerns about the safety measures during the said stage. However, the UCI has not made any ruling against the race organisers.
