Pogačar successfully operated on: the long road to recovery begins

Reigning world champion Tadej Pogačar underwent surgery on Monday for the broken collarbone he suffered in Saturday's crash during stage eight of the Vuelta a España. The successful outcome of the operation was confirmed by the medical director of UAE Team Emirates-XRG, who specified that the Slovenian phenomenon will remain hospitalized in Barcelona for several days to begin his recovery.

"This afternoon, Tadej underwent successful surgery on his left clavicle after receiving the green light to proceed with the operation. The procedure went well, and he will remain in the hospital for post-operative monitoring for a few days," team doctor Dr. Adrian Rotunno said via the team's social media channels.

"When he's ready, Tadej will return home to begin his rehabilitation under the supervision of the team's medical staff. We will continue to monitor his progress closely throughout his recovery," the doctor added, casting significant doubt on the timing of his return to the squad.

The champion was initially treated at a hospital in Gandia, south of Valencia, before being transferred to Barcelona that same evening. Due to his concussion, the surgery was initially postponed as a precaution, but Pogačar was ultimately given the all-clear a day earlier than originally planned.

After arriving at the hospital in Barcelona, ​​Pogačar posted a photo of himself wearing a soft neck brace and large bandages on his face and hand, accompanying the shot with the Bee Gees' famous song 'Stayin Alive' to convey a message of positivity to his fans and followers.