After being accused in very strong terms by Primož Roglič of causing the Slovenian's exit from La Vuelta, British rider Fred Wright has replied with measured remarks and is winning the public relations battle in the dispute.
Roglič has left many cycling fans bemused by his remarks when he said in a statement issued by Jumbo Visma that Wright (Bahrain Victorious) had caused his crash at La Vuelta, and exit from the race, at the end of stage 15. Many onlookers have reacted with bemusement to Roglič feeling the need to issue a statement, especially as he was the one who had moved so significantly in the front group just before the crash.
Wright has praised Roglič as a great rider in his remarks but clearly, and politely, said he disagrees with the blame Roglič and Jumbo Visma have placed on his shoulders for causing the crash.
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"Firstly I’d like to thank my teammates for the amazing effort they put in today. I was close again to that stage win, but Mads was just too quick," Wright began his statement, referring to finishing 2nd in yesterday's Vuelta stage, won by Mads Pedersen (Trek Segafredo) in a bunch sprint.
"After the stage I was full of emotion from the race, and then when I got back to the bus I saw the statement from Jumbo. It was really hard to read, and I’m pretty disappointed. I think it’s unfair, the team and I have looked at the footage again tonight, and I honestly don’t believe I did anything wrong - it was just a racing incident. Primoz is an amazing bike rider he was so on the up and challenging for the red jersey in Madrid.
"It was a huge loss for the race and I totally understand he must be very disappointed. I’m sure he’ll be smashing races again soon. He was so impressive three days ago, I’m gutted for him. There have been some pretty nasty comments, but I really appreciate all the positive messages I’ve had."
