'We do everything for safety, then this happens' – driver expelled after Mikel Landa hit by car at Itzulia Basque Country

Mikel Landa was forced to abandon the Itzulia Basque Country after being struck by the race doctor’s car during the second stage of the event. The incident occurred on a fast, narrow descent close to the finish line, where Landa was knocked off his bike but managed to complete the stage. Following a hospital assessment that revealed no fractures or serious injuries, the Soudal Quick-Step rider was nonetheless advised to withdraw to allow for full recovery. The driver of the medical vehicle, identified as Santiago Bianco, was promptly removed from the race and fined 500 Swiss francs. The challenging nature of the mountainous course, with its tight and sinuous roads, was cited as a contributing factor to the accident. Another incident involving a spectator being knocked over by a race motorcycle further highlighted the difficult conditions faced by race officials and participants alike. Soudal Quick-Step’s CEO Jurgen Foré expressed frustration at the lack of an official apology from race organisers, describing the situation as “infuriating.” He criticised the circumstances that led to Landa’s crash, questioning the safety protocols in place despite the team’s efforts to prioritise rider welfare. Foré emphasised the unfairness of the incident, noting that the team bore the consequences without receiving any acknowledgement from the race management. Landa, a seasoned rider with two previous runner-up finishes at the Itzulia Basque Country, is now focusing on his recovery ahead of the Giro d’Italia next month. Meanwhile, French rider Paul Seixas continues to lead the general classification following his stage victory. The incident has raised concerns about race safety and the management of support vehicles on technical descents, potentially prompting a review of protocols in future events.