Sir Jim Ratcliffe, CEO of Ineos Grenadiers, has called for action to be taken to protect professional cyclists from accidents during the upcoming Grand Tour season. In an open letter released on Friday, Ratcliffe highlighted the safety issues present in the sport, citing recent incidents involving top cyclists such as Jonas Vingegaard, Remco Evenepoel, and Primoz Roglic. Ratcliffe pointed out that serious accidents are a common occurrence in cycling and emphasized the need for changes to be made to improve safety.
Ratcliffe drew a parallel between the safety measures implemented in Formula 1 after Ayrton Senna’s fatal crash and the lack of significant changes in cycling. He referenced incidents involving INEOS Grenadiers riders Chris Froome and Egan Bernal, both of whom suffered serious injuries while training. Ratcliffe acknowledged the UCI’s recent decision to establish ‘SafeR’, a specialist entity dedicated to overseeing cycling safety, but called for further action to minimize the risk of accidents in the sport.
The Ineos Grenadiers CEO praised the UCI’s commitment to making cycling safer and reducing risks for both riders and spectators. He emphasized the importance of taking proactive measures to ensure the safety of elite cyclists, who are known for pushing their limits in pursuit of victory. Ratcliffe highlighted the need for a dedicated safety body in cycling, similar to the advancements made in Formula 1 over the past three decades.
Ratcliffe’s letter comes in the wake of a recent crash involving Vingegaard, Evenepoel, and Roglic, as well as Jay Vine, who sustained spinal fractures but avoided life-changing injuries. The incidents serve as a reminder of the dangers faced by professional cyclists, both during races and training sessions. Ratcliffe’s call to action aims to galvanize the cycling community to prioritize safety and make meaningful changes to protect athletes and enhance the overall experience of the sport.
As the Grand Tour season approaches, Ratcliffe’s message resonates with stakeholders across the cycling industry, urging them to take safety concerns seriously and implement necessary reforms. The establishment of ‘SafeR’ by the UCI marks a positive step towards addressing safety issues in professional cycling, but Ratcliffe emphasizes the need for ongoing commitment to ensuring the well-being of riders. By drawing attention to the significant risks faced by cyclists, Ratcliffe hopes to drive meaningful change and create a safer environment for athletes to compete at the highest level.
In conclusion, Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s open letter serves as a rallying cry for the cycling community to prioritize safety and take concrete steps to protect professional athletes. By highlighting recent incidents and advocating for proactive measures, Ratcliffe underscores the importance of creating a safe environment for elite cyclists to compete. As the Grand Tour season approaches, Ratcliffe’s call for action resonates with the need for ongoing commitment to safety and the establishment of a dedicated safety body in cycling. With the support of the UCI and stakeholders in the sport, Ratcliffe’s vision for a safer and more secure cycling environment can be realized, ensuring the well-being of riders and enhancing the overall experience of professional cycling.
