Jasper Philipsen, one of the top sprinters in the peloton and a strong contender for the green jersey, saw his 2025 Tour de France campaign cut short on Stage 3 after a severe crash. The incident occurred during an intermediate sprint, marking a heartbreaking end to what had been a promising start for Philipsen and his Alpecin-Deceuninck team.
The Crash Incident on Stage 3
The crash took place approximately 60km from the finish of the 178.3km Stage 3 from Valenciennes to Dunkirk. Philipsen was involved in a collision with Bryan Coquard of Cofidis, who, according to reports, was unintentionally diverted into Philipsen’s path after an initial bump with Laurenz Rex (Intermarché-Wanty). Philipsen, wearing the green points jersey he earned from his Stage 1 victory, landed heavily on his right side, with his jersey visibly torn and immediate signs of injury.
Immediate Aftermath and Withdrawal
Race doctors were quick to attend to Philipsen, who was seen with his right arm in a sling. Despite an initial attempt to continue, the severity of his injuries made it impossible for him to carry on with the race. Alpecin-Deceuninck confirmed his withdrawal soon after the incident.
Philipsen was transferred to AZ Herentals hospital, where he underwent successful surgery to repair a fractured collarbone and his AC (shoulder) joint. His team also indicated the possibility of one or two broken ribs. The road to recovery for the Belgian sprinter now begins.
Impact on Alpecin-Deceuninck and the Green Jersey Competition
Philipsen’s abandonment is a significant blow to Alpecin-Deceuninck, who had enjoyed a dominant start to the Tour with Philipsen’s Stage 1 win and teammate Mathieu van der Poel’s Stage 2 victory, which put him in the yellow jersey. Philipsen, a winner of 10 career Tour de France stages and the green jersey in 2023, was a key figure in their strategy.
With Philipsen out, the virtual green jersey shifted to Biniam Girmay of Intermarche-Wanty. Stage 3 was eventually won by Tim Merlier in a sprint finish. The competition for the points classification will now undoubtedly intensify with Philipsen, a major contender, out of the race.
