An unexpected cloud hangs over Paris-Nice leader Primož Roglič (Jumbo Visma) heading into Stage 8 after intense questioning from journalists as to whether it was ethical for him to win at Valdeblore La Colmiane.
By FAUX-STO COPPI
Roglič’s post-race press conference had to be cut short when the famously stone-faced Slovenian – who had the 2020 TdF maillot jaune ripped from his back in the final time trial – buckled over in hysterics when journalists suggested he shouldn’t have put extra time into his GC rivals and instead gifted the stage victory to Gino Mäder (Bahrain Victorious).
By attacking in the final 300m and overhauling Mäder, Roglič extended his lead by over defending Paris-Nice champ Max Schachmann (Bora Hansgrohe).
The Gruppetto Gazette understands Roglič was sent for scans following the incident, after concerns his bout of mirth may have resulted in a hairline fracture or damage to rib cartilage.
“Primož did start to panic a bit – we did a few back-of-the-envelope calculations and turns out it’s about eight years since he laughed so he wasn’t quite sure what was going on,” said Roglic’s mountain domestique, Kiwi George Bennett.
“Last I heard the x-rays aren’t back yet – if he’s laughed some cartilage loose it’s painful but manageable if we needle him up. If it’s a break though I’m not sure what the plan will be.”
In the meantime, Roglič has been ordered to avoid any news reports pertaining to Dave Brailsford having no idea what former Team Sky doctor Richard Freeman was doing while employed by the team, lest additional laughter were to aggravate his injuries.
The Gruppetto Gazette 