We’ve finally had news from the Commencal Vallnord team on the state of Remi Thirion after his horror crash in qualifying.
Remi flew over the final table top and ended up in a heap on the floor just short of the finish line. Qualifying was put on hold until he could be airlifted out and we’ve had a nervy wait since then to hear about his condition.
Thankfully, it seems it’s not as bad as we first thought (those Austrian rules on body protection may just have saved him something far more serious!). The diagnosis is: a broken collarbone, 3 broken ribs and 2 fractured vertebrae. He won’t need surgery, should be up and walking tomorrow and is hoping to make it back before the end of the season – given the impact he took, he can probably count himself very lucky!
Here’s the full statement from Commencal Vallnord: “Our emotions were a bit too high to post anything about today before now. As you probably know by now, Remi Thirion had a horrific crash today on the last jump in Leogang. It was horrible to watch and we were all scared about the consequences.
He was flown to hospital by helicopter and has been diagnosed with a broken collarbone, 3 broken ribs and 2 fractured vertebrae. According to the doctors he doesn’t need any urgent surgery which is reassuring.
“We’re happy to say he can hopefully stand up again tomorrow and he should be able to be back before the end of the season!
“Thanks to the whole MTB and World Cup community for your support and kind words. Remi, it’s difficult to describe how scared we were. Get well soon buddy, we love you.”
Also a victim of the last jump was Lachlan Blair who ended up with a broken femur. He said: “Was having fun in leogang trying to go fast! unfortunately a soft patch on the take off of the last jump sent me into a ruthless nosedive which resulted in a broken femur, surgery and a prolonged stay in hospital. Thanks for all the kind messages!! I don’t know how long it will be before I can ride again but I’ll be back asap.”
Heal up fast Remi and Lachlan!
