The Lliga de la Llèda is one of the most prestigious cycling races in Spain and has been held annually since 1966. The race is known for its challenging terrain and steep climbs, making it a test of both physical and mental strength for the riders.
However, this year's edition of the Lliga de la Llèda was marred by several injuries to key players, which have had a significant impact on the team selections for the event.
One of the most notable injuries occurred in the women's time trial, where a rider fell and broke her arm. As a result, she was forced to withdraw from the race, leaving her teammates without a clear leader and potentially opening up opportunities for other riders to step up and take control.
In addition, several other riders were injured during the race, including a breakaway group that was caught and brought back to the peloton. This group included two-time Tour de France winner Chris Froome, who was forced to abandon the race due to a leg injury.
These injuries have not only affected the performance of the riders but also their ability to compete at the highest level. With so many key players sidelined, it will be difficult for teams to field a strong lineup and compete for the win.
Overall, the injuries suffered by the riders during the Lliga de la Llèda have had a significant impact on the race's outcome and will likely affect the team selections for next year's event. It remains to be seen how the organizers will respond to these challenges and ensure that the race continues to be a top-level competition.