Groupama-FDJ’s David Gaudu Forced to Rest Due to Back Injury

In an unfortunate turn of events, French cyclist David Gaudu finds himself on a forced rest period after sustaining a back injury in a seemingly trivial fall during Paris-Nice. The 27-year-old rising star’s hopes of resuming competition on April 1 hang in the balance as he battles to recover from the unexpected setback.

During the challenging Mont Brouilly stage at Paris-Nice, Gaudu’s campaign took a drastic turn when he fell while simply trying to remove his jacket. This seemingly harmless incident resulted in significant time losses, with Gaudu conceding crucial minutes in subsequent stages. The toll of the injuries was evident as he made the tough decision to withdraw before the final stage of the race.

Following a period of rest, Gaudu underwent medical examinations that revealed a sacroiliac muscle and ligament injury, shedding light on the severity of his condition. The Groupama-FDJ team doctor, Jacky Maillot, provided insight into the injury, emphasizing the challenges ahead for Gaudu in his recovery journey.

While the original plan was for Gaudu to make a comeback during the Tour of the Basque Country in early April, uncertainties loom over his return. Philippe Mauduit, the team’s sporting director, expressed cautious optimism about Gaudu’s prospects but acknowledged the unpredictable nature of such injuries. The team is considering a gradual reintroduction to racing, potentially including a few preparatory races to gauge Gaudu’s readiness.

Looking ahead, Gaudu aims to participate in the prestigious April classics, including the Amstel Gold Race, La Flèche Wallonne, and Liège-Bastogne-Liège, before setting his sights on the Tour de France. The cyclist’s determination to bounce back showcases his resilience and unwavering commitment to reclaiming peak form, with hopes pinned on a full recovery to deliver stellar performances in the upcoming races.

As the cycling community eagerly awaits updates on Gaudu’s progress, his journey serves as a testament to the challenges and uncertainties inherent in the demanding world of professional cycling. Stay tuned for further developments as David Gaudu embarks on his quest for redemption and resurgence in the competitive arena.