No fractures for Juan Ayuso - Lidl-Trek leader abandons Paris-Nice but spring campaign unlikely to end

Today's stage of Paris-Nice was ravaged by the bad weather. 15 riders abandoned in a day where the rain and the wind hit the peloton hard, and amongst them was the race leader Juan Ayuso. Following his fall there was fear that there could be a fracture for the Spaniard which would end his spring campaign; but Lidl-Trek have now confirmed that is not the case.

The crash happened with 47 kilometers to go and Ayuso was involved in a crash with several other riders, including Brandon McNulty. Ayuso, winner of the Volta ao Algarve and was leading the French race, looked to be having an idea week and was in the lead after three days of racing. However, despite making it into the winning echelon, he didn't make it into the day's climbs.

After crashing Ayuso got back on the bike but it was quickly evident he would withdraw from the race. When he got off the bike, he laid on the grass afterwards holding his hip, creating fears of a larger injury. There were long hours at the Lidl-Trek camp, however in the early hours of the evening, the German team provided a positive update.

"Fortunately X-rays performed at the hospital in France did not reveal any fractures for Ayuso," a statement from the team read. "A further clinical assessment performed by the Team doctor on-site at the Team hotel has also ruled out any other serious injuries".

Initially, his schedule would include Itzulia Basque Country, Flèche Wallonne and Líège-Bastogne-Liège. It is unclear whether he will take part in them at the time being, but with fractures ruled out for the time being, then there is reason to be optimistic.

"Juan will continue to monitored by the Team’s medical staff & another update will be provided only if necessary. Juan wants to express his disappointment at leaving the Team at Paris-Nice and will be supporting his teammates from home".