Manhole Cover Causes Multiple Crashes in Tour de France Opening TTT
Riders from Groupama-FDJ and XDS Astana crashed during the Tour de France’s 19.6km opening team time trial in Barcelona on July 4, 2026, after striking a manhole cover. Groupama-FDJ confirmed Clément Berthet abandoned the race due to the crash, while four XDS Astana riders suffered extensive abrasions but intend to continue.
Why did Groupama-FDJ and XDS Astana crash?
The crashes occurred when riders struck a manhole cover while hugging the right side of the road approaching a fast left-hand corner. According to eyewitness video shared with Velo, the impact jolted the bicycles, upsetting the riders’ balance and causing them to lose control at speeds approaching 60kph.
Although the manhole cover had been marked with fluorescent paint, the high speed of the team time trial (TTT) left riders with little time to react. Henry Magowan, who filmed the incidents, told Velo the crashes were “violent” and occurred as riders prepared for the upcoming turn.
Which riders were injured and who abandoned the race?
Clément Berthet is the first rider to abandon the 2026 Tour de France. Groupama-FDJ confirmed Berthet will not continue following the crash, which saw two of the team’s riders go down.
XDS Astana reported a more significant pile-up with four riders slamming into the pavement. The team confirmed that Nico Vino, Harold Tejada, and Simovelasco suffered “bruises and multiple extensive abrasions.” However, XDS Astana stated there were no fractures or serious injuries, and all riders are expected to start the second stage on Sunday.
How was the hazard handled by officials?
Police directed subsequent teams around the manhole cover only after the crashes involving Groupama-FDJ and XDS Astana had already occurred. According to Henry Magowan, officials realized there was a problem with the course surface after the incidents. Magowan noted that police eventually stood on the course to wave other teams away from the hazard.
Incident Summary
The opening stage has already resulted in significant physical tolls for two major teams. The following table summarizes the impact of the Barcelona TTT crash:
| Team | Riders Crashed | Outcome | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Groupama-FDJ | 2 | Clément Berthet abandoned | 1 Rider Out |
| XDS Astana | 4 | Extensive abrasions/bruises | All continuing |
The race now moves into its second stage with the peloton mindful of course hazards and Groupama-FDJ operating with one fewer rider than planned.
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