Australian cyclist Lucas Plapp, a two-time Australian time trial champion, underwent abdominal surgery at a Paris hospital after a heavy crash during the men's individual road time trial at the Paris 2024 Olympics.
The 23-year-old Plapp slid under a barrier fence around 14 kilometers into the 32-kilometer rain-slicked course, colliding heavily with a barrier fence.
Plapp's parents and an Australian team doctor were present at the hospital during his treatment.
Numerous crashes occurred due to the challenging rain-soaked and cobbled route, including American riders Taylor Knibb and Chloe Dygert, and Norwegian Søren Wærenskjold failing to finish.
Several athletes criticized the decision to proceed with the race despite adverse weather conditions, citing safety concerns.
This article was written in collaboration with Generative AI news company Alchemiq
Sources: The Guardian, Koha Ditore, Aussiedlerbote, Latestly, Head Topics, Devdiscourse, Caledonian Record, Australian Financial Review.