Dimension Data’s Louis Meintjes was given the go-ahead to race in stage 15 of the Vuelta a Espana later today following a serious crash in yesterday’s stage.
The South African, who was given the leadership role for the team before the Vuelta started, still managed to finish stage 14 yesterday, but his injuries were a concern.
Dimension Data’s Louis Meintjes was given the go-ahead to race in stage 15 of the Vuelta a Espana later today following a serious crash in yesterday’s stage. Photo: Stiehl Photography
Meintjes crashed on a high-speed corner and rolled down an embankment.
He suffered a major laceration to his left elbow, which required stitches, and had various other minor cuts and bruises. Due to the nature of his fall there were also concerns over a potential head injury and concussion.
However, it was confirmed yesterday that the 26-year-old showed no symptoms of concussion.
Following an exercise test today, team doctor Jarrad van Zuydam confirmed that Meintjes was cleared to continue the Vuelta after he responded well to treatment.
The crash cost Meintjes valuable time, dropping him eight places in the general classification from 24th to 32nd, and leaving him 22:40 behind race leader Simon Yates (Mitchelton-Scott).
