Urska Ziegert’s jaw was broken in a heavy crash at the Tour de Suisse Femmes

Slovenian rider Urska Zigert broke her jaw in a heavy crash at the start of the final kilometer of the second stage of the Tour de Suisse Femmes in Locarno on Thursday.

Ziegert lost control riding at high speed over a speed bump and rolled several meters before coming to a stop on the tarmac and crashing hard to the ground.

Several other riders then crashed as they tried to pass Ziegert, 29, as he remained on the road.

Ziegert’s team, AG Insurance-Soudal, confirmed that he had been taken to hospital.

“After several medical evaluations, Urska was diagnosed with a broken jaw. Fortunately, no other injuries were detected during the examination,” they added.

“The team’s medical staff is currently evaluating the next steps necessary to ensure Urska has the best possible treatment and recovery process. At this point, our primary focus is on her health and well-being.”

Ziegert’s partner is fellow cyclist Tadez Pogacar – a four-time Tour de France winner – who is set to start the day’s stage in the same position as the men’s Tour de Suisse.

According to Slovenian media, Ziegert was conscious after his crash and was later able to speak to 27-year-old world champion Pogacar, who leads the general classification after the first two stages of the men’s race.