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Can cyclists actually avoid injuries and illness? Experts examined three years of UAE Team Emirates-XRG data to find out

Dr. Raaghib Fredericks recently presented a three-year study of UAE Team Emirates-XRG medical records at a Barcelona conference, highlighting the significant performance impact of rider health.

The research, which tracked 30 cyclists between 2019 and 2021, revealed that the team lost 1,920 days to injury or illness, averaging two missed days per rider each month. Notable cases included Diego Ulissi, who was sidelined for months following a 2020 myocarditis diagnosis.

Additionally, the study noted an unexplained trend of more frequent crashes occurring on the right side of the peloton. This data is being used to develop better protocols to mitigate the competitive and commercial consequences of rider absences.

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