Cian Uijtdebroeks will not start in the fifth stage of the Vuelta a España, after confirmation that the injury sustained in the crash during the second stage is more serious than initially assessed.

The Belgian crossed the finish line yesterday in last place, losing 26'11" to Pogacar, visibly emotional. Further medical tests were conducted in the evening, and this morning the decision was made not to continue.

"Following additional tests and examinations, it has been determined that the injury sustained in the second stage is more serious than initially assessed. The team has decided to withdraw Cian from the race so he can begin his recovery as soon as possible," reads the Movistar statement. 

For Uijtdebroeks, this is the second withdrawal from a Grand Tour this season. He had already been forced to abandon the Tour de France in the first week due to illness.