Australian cyclist Jay Vine won the Tour Down Under despite suffering a fractured wrist after colliding with a kangaroo during the final stage. His team, UAE Team Emirates-XRG, confirmed the injury and subsequent surgery on Tuesday.
Immediate Action & Core Facts
Vine, 30, sustained a left wrist scaphoid fracture after being knocked off his bike by a kangaroo during the fifth and final stage of the race. Despite the injury, he held onto his overall lead to secure victory by over one minute. The kangaroo involved in the crash limped away from the scene.
Vine underwent successful surgery on Tuesday and will miss upcoming races, including the Great Ocean Road Race, for recovery and rehabilitation.
Deeper Dive & Context
Crash Details and Race Impact
The crash occurred when two kangaroos jumped onto the course with about 95 kilometers remaining in the final stage. Vine was among several riders affected, requiring a bike change but ultimately finishing the race to claim his second Tour Down Under title.
Vine joked after his victory, ‘All the Europeans ask me what’s the most dangerous animal in Australia — I always tell them it’s the kangaroos. They wait in the bushes until you cannot stop and then they jump out in front of you.’
Medical and Competitive Implications
Team doctor Adrian Rotunno stated that Vine reported wrist pain post-race, leading to the discovery of the fracture. The team has not yet provided a timeline for his return to competition.
The Tour Down Under, the opening event of the 2026 World Tour, proceeded despite extreme heat and bushfire risks in Victoria, which led to the cancellation of the Surf Coast Classic races.
Broader Context
This incident highlights the unpredictable hazards cyclists face in Australian races, where wildlife encounters are not uncommon. Organizers and teams must balance safety protocols with the logistical challenges of outdoor events in regions with native wildlife.