Blow for Astana as Alexandr Vinokurov jr. hit by car in training and left with "fracture of the right femoral neck"

The XDS Astana Team have made a brilliant to what is a massively important 2025 season for them, as the team hopes to retain its World Tour status. In a new blow for the team though, talented youngster Alexandr Vinokurov Jr. who impressed at the AlUla Tour this year, is set to be out of action for the foreseeable future after being hit by a car in training.

"XDS Astana Development Team reports that during a training session in Greece, ahead of a series of races, Alexandr Vinokurov jr. was involved in an accident after colliding with a car that unexpectedly appeared from around a corner," Astana reported yesterday (March 5th) in a press release on their official website. "Following a medical examination, he has been diagnosed with a fracture of the right femoral neck. Alexandr will soon undergo surgery on his hip, after which he will be transported to France for the next phase of his recovery. The rider is in stable condition. The team is providing all necessary support and wishes Alexandr a speedy recovery."

Now (March 6th), a new update has been posted and thankfully, it's slightly positive, with the Kazakh youngster, son of former Olympic gold medallist Alexander Vinokourov, having undergone successful surgery. "XDS Astana Development Team rider Alexandr Vinokurov jr. underwent surgery on his right femoral neck. The surgery was successful, and the fracture has been well stabilized," the update reads. "Additionally, further examinations will be conducted on the cervical spine to assess the crack in the seventh cervical vertebra. The team wishes Alexandr a speedy recovery and a strong return to racing."