#ParisRoubaix Sadly, we have to report that @MilanJonathan_ has been forced to abandon due to his earlier crash. More info coming after he has been assessed by our team doctor.
Early on in Paris-Roubaix, the day's first pile-up happened, bringing down several riders, including Elia Viviani, Tim Merlier, Alberto Bettiol, Jonas Rutsch and Jonathan Milan. Milan, who was racing for Lidl-Trek, appeared particularly enraged by the incident. His frustration was directed primarily at one photographer, as captured in videos. Team managers had to hold back the Italian as the photographer hurried away.
The crash knocked out many outsiders. Notables like Laurenz Rex (Intermarché-Wanty), Tim Merlier (Soudal Quick-Step) and Alberto Bettiol (EF Education-EasyPost) were among those who tasted asphalt. Rex was particularly battered, while Merlier, fresh from a Scheldeprijs victory, was also badly injured...
Soon after the incident, it was reported that Milan had dropped out of the race, a heavy loss for his American WorldTour team.
Rex showed remarkable resilience, quickly catching up to the peloton after his nasty spill, proving his excellent form. However, his comeback was short-lived as he crashed again, effectively ending his race. This time, he collided with a traffic barrier in the middle of the road, which was thankfully cushioned by a protective pad.
#ParisRoubaix Sadly, we have to report that @MilanJonathan_ has been forced to abandon due to his earlier crash. More info coming after he has been assessed by our team doctor.
🚴🇫🇷 | Dat Laurenz Rex zich nog terug wist te vechten naar de voorste groep was al een wonder, maar één moment van onoplettendheid in een bocht... 💥​💥​ #ParisRoubaix 📺 Koers kijk je op discovery+
🚴🇫🇷 | Ai.. Een flinke valpartij. Elia Viviani lijkt het grootste slachtoffer en Jonathan Milan heeft ruzie met een fotograaf 😥​😥​ #ParisRoubaix 📺 Koers kijk je op discovery+
Laurenz Rex crashed and sustained road rash all over his body 😰 But our leader keeps fighting and returns in the peloton 💪 #ParisRoubaix