In a devastating blow to his 2025 season, Australian cycling star Michael Matthews has been sidelined indefinitely after sustaining fractures to both wrists during a training crash. The 35-year-old Jayco AlUla rider, who recently returned to competition following recovery from a pulmonary embolism, will miss all upcoming races including the prestigious Paris-Nice event and the spring classics campaign.
Training Accident Leads to Double Fractures
Matthews suffered the crash during a routine training session on Thursday and was immediately transported to hospital for evaluation. Team medical staff confirmed through CT scans that the veteran rider had sustained fractures to both wrists, effectively ending his participation in any near-term competitions.
"Unfortunately Michael Matthews suffered a crash whilst out training and was transferred to hospital," stated an official announcement from his Jayco AlUla team. "Team medical staff have confirmed that CT scan results show fractures to both of his wrists, subsequently ruling him out of all upcoming races."
Spring Classics Campaign Ruined
The timing of the injury proves particularly unfortunate as Matthews was poised to contest the eight-day Paris-Nice race beginning Sunday, followed by targeted participation in Milan-Sanremo on March 21st. The Canberra-born cyclist had finished fourth in last year's Milan-Sanremo and was considered a strong contender for the spring classics season.
Matthews' decorated 17-year career includes 44 professional victories, stages in all three Grand Tours, and the coveted green jersey at the Tour de France. His season had begun promisingly with a victory at the Gran Premio de Castellon in Spain in late January, marking his first win since returning from medical leave.
Second Major Health Setback in Recent Years
This injury represents the second significant health challenge Matthews has faced in recent seasons. During the 2025 campaign, the cyclist was diagnosed with a potentially life-threatening pulmonary embolism discovered at an altitude training camp in Livigno, Italy, forcing him to take an extended break from competition.
"Matthews is in direct contact with team medical staff and will have extensive support to aid a swift recovery," the team statement continued, emphasizing their commitment to his rehabilitation process.
Impact on World Tour Calendar
The double wrist fractures effectively eliminate Matthews from the European spring racing calendar, including multiple classic one-day races where he has historically performed well. His absence creates a significant gap in the Jayco AlUla team's roster for the coming months as they adjust their strategy without one of their most experienced riders.
Medical experts suggest recovery from such bilateral wrist injuries typically requires several weeks of immobilization followed by extensive rehabilitation, potentially keeping Matthews off the bike for a substantial portion of the competitive season.
