Collarbone fracture means Michael Woods might not get to race in Ardennes for a second year in a row

Milano - Torino wasn't a good race for Israel - Premier Tech. The relatively simple parcours with peloton riding up Superga twice promised a big clash among the more explosive of the climber's guild, but that battle had to unfold without Michael Woods. That's because the National champion of Canada had crashed earlier in the race with suspicion of collarbone fracture.

"Unfortunately, Mike Woods crashed at the Milano - Torino and was forced to abandon the race," begins the press release on team social media.

"X-rays have confirmed a small non-displaced fracture of the left collarbone, which may require surgery. IPT’s medical team will decide on the next steps in consultation with an orthopaedic specialist to determine the best course of action for Mike. Fortunately, Mike is not displaying any symptoms of concussion and will be able to return home to begin his recovery."

This comes as a heavy blow to Woods' spring ambitions, in particular the Ardennes Classics in about a month. Woods is traditionally among the big guns especially at the La Fleche Wallonne and Liege-Bastogne-Liege, having podium both races in the past. But this collarbone fracture is likely going to force the Canadian to watch the action from sidelines for second year in a row.