The reigning champion of the Classicissima was the victim of an accident in the last kilometre
A crash in the final kilometre of the Nokere Koerse has cast serious doubt on Jasper Philipsen's presence at Saturday's Milan-San Remo, where the Alpecin-Deceuninck rider is expected to defend his title from last year.
The Belgian sprinter, who had shown excellent condition during the race with an attack that had fragmented the group, was involved in an accident due to contact with Arne Marit (Intermarché-Wanty).
Alpecin-Deceuninck's sports director Preben Van Hecke told Belgian media that the decision on whether to take part in the Classicissima will be made in the coming hours: 'It can go either way. We have to wait until the night: he has several bruises all over his body. His right side is quite badly damaged, his fingers were also affected. He may need stitches on his right hand between the middle and ring fingers.'
Arne Marit, who was inadvertently responsible for the accident, expressed his regret:
'Philipsen is one of the big favourites for Milano-Sanremo, so I still feel guilty. I was in a perfect position to compete for the win, and it's really frustrating to end like this'For cycling fantasy fans, this situation requires particular attention: Philipsen's possible absence from Milan-San Remo could force a review of the training strategies, considering that the Belgian was among the main favorites for the victory.
