'A tough period of racing while searching for answers' –Iliac artery surgery ahead for Neve Bradbury

Neve Bradbury, the promising Australian climber riding for Canyon-SRAM, is set to undergo surgery for iliac artery endofibrosis, a condition that has hampered her performance in recent seasons. After a breakthrough 2024 campaign that saw her secure multiple podium finishes including a stage win and third overall at the Giro d’Italia, as well as strong results at the UAE Tour, Tour de Suisse, and the World Championships, Bradbury’s form has since declined. The past year has been particularly challenging, with her only top-three finish being a third place at the Australian National Road Race, and a recent withdrawal from the Vuelta Feminina highlighting her ongoing struggles. Iliac artery endofibrosis is a vascular condition that restricts blood flow during intense physical exertion, often requiring surgery and a lengthy recovery period. Bradbury acknowledged the difficulty of the past months, describing it as a “tough period of racing while searching for answers” before confirming her surgery is scheduled for the coming week. Several high-profile female cyclists, including Annemiek van Vleuten, Pauline Ferrand-Prévot, and Marianne Vos, have faced similar issues and successfully returned to competition, offering hope for Bradbury’s future prospects. At just 24 years old, Bradbury has already demonstrated significant potential, particularly on demanding climbs such as the Blockhaus stage of the Giro d’Italia. Having turned professional at 18 and been with Canyon-SRAM since 2021, she benefits from a stable team environment and a contract that extends through to the end of 2027. This continuity will be crucial as she embarks on her recovery and aims to rebuild her form, even if it means missing much of the current season. Bradbury remains optimistic despite the setback, emphasising the long road ahead but expressing determination to return to racing. Her situation underscores the physical challenges elite cyclists face and highlights the importance of medical intervention and patience in overcoming such obstacles. Fans and the cycling community will be watching closely as she works towards a comeback, hoping to see her regain the form that once made her one of the sport’s most exciting young talents.