'I get the impression that the changes made haven’t actually made the sport safer' – Tom Pidcock talks safety in cycling upon return from Catalunya ravine fall

Tom Pidcock is making his return to competitive cycling at the Tour of the Alps following a serious crash at the Volta a Catalunya, where he suffered knee ligament damage after falling down a ravine at high speed. Despite the severity of the accident, Pidcock remained conscious and was able to alert his team, a factor he believes highlights ongoing safety concerns within the sport. He has opted to skip La Flèche Wallonne, a race where he finished third last year, as he does not yet feel fully fit to compete at his best on the demanding Mur de Huy climb. Reflecting on cycling safety, Pidcock expressed scepticism about recent changes implemented by the sport’s governing bodies. He suggested that many of these measures lack clear justification and have not effectively improved rider safety. In particular, he emphasised the importance of technology such as radios, which allow riders to communicate during emergencies, arguing that their removal could pose significant risks. Pidcock also referenced the UCI’s plans to introduce GPS tracking to monitor crashes, a response to incidents where riders lose consciousness and cannot signal for help. Despite the traumatic nature of his fall, Pidcock remains determined and unafraid as he prepares for upcoming races. He described his crash as the result of “a series of unfortunate circumstances” rather than something that will haunt him or affect his confidence on the bike. His focus now is on regaining form through longer climbs at the Tour of the Alps, with an eye on performing well at Liège-Bastogne-Liège later in the week. Pidcock’s cautious approach to his comeback underlines the physical and mental challenges riders face after serious injuries. While his team encouraged him to compete at La Flèche Wallonne, he prioritised recovery and conditioning to ensure he can contest the more demanding races ahead. His comments also contribute to the wider debate on how cycling can better protect its athletes, balancing tradition with modern safety innovations.