david de la cruz had to withdraw from the Tour after an accident early on stage 12, while the peloton pulled away at the start. The 34-year-old rider from Sabadell, competing for Astana, had already seen three teammates go down due to crashes and collarbone fractures. The cascade began with Luisle Sanchez, then Mark Cavendish, and now this latest setback left the team with a smaller roster and a heavy emotional toll as the race pressed on.
Relating to
It marked de la cruz’s third appearance at the Tour, a career that has brought moments of triumph but also stubborn bad luck. A native of Catalonia, he has long been regarded as one of the region’s most talented riders, but his path has frequently collided with misfortune. In 2014, he sustained a collarbone injury after a crash at a crossroads that mirrored the accident he faced on that Thursday in stage 12, underscoring the unpredictable nature of the sport and the constant vigilance required on every climb and descent.
Former partner of Froome and Pogacar
In earlier years de la cruz stood out as a key support rider, especially during a remarkable campaign in 2020 when he rode as part of the UAE Team Emirates setup. That year’s season featured Tadej Pogacar claiming one of his two landmark victories, with de la cruz contributing behind the scenes as a trusted teammate. The shift in roles across teams and seasons reflected the dynamic reality of professional cycling, where a rider’s value often lies in leadership on the front or steady support through the stages that demand both endurance and tactical sense.
From the cross matured into a stage winner at Naranco and a prominent figure in the Vuelta during 2016, a year when he briefly led the race before a tough finish. His career at the Giro and other grand tours showcased his willingness to accept roles that maximize the squad’s chances, even when the odds seem stacked against him. The sport’s history is filled with moments where a rider’s loyalty and resilience become as crucial as speed and power. De la cruz contributed to his teams with decisive rides that helped teammates and teams stay competitive across long mountain passes and demanding sprint finishes.