Jay Vine Triumphs in Tour Down Under Despite Kangaroo Crash
In a stunning display of resilience, Australian cyclist Jay Vine triumphed in the Tour Down Under, overcoming an unusual crash involving a kangaroo. The unexpected incident occurred during the final stage of the 2026 World Tour event, held in the hills surrounding Adelaide.
Kenyon Kangaroo Crash Involving Jay Vine
The final stage, covering 105 miles, was filled with challenges. Vine, who led the race with a comfortable margin of 1 minute and 3 seconds, faced setbacks due to crashes that had forced two of his teammates from UAE Team Emirates to abandon earlier stages. Vine himself was knocked from his bike when two kangaroos entered the race course at high speed, approximately 60 miles into a high-paced segment.
- Race Distance: 105 miles
- Vine’s Lead: 1 minute, 3 seconds
- Teams Affected: UAE Team Emirates, Team Jayco Alula, EF Education — EasyPost
Challenges Faced by Competitors
During the final segment, three cyclists—including Menno Huising, Lucas Stevenson, and Alberto Dainese—were unable to continue following the kangaroo incident. Vine himself remarked on the dangers posed by wildlife in Australia, humorously stating that kangaroos are often underestimated as a threat.
Despite his crash, where he collided with the kangaroo’s rear, Vine quickly got back on his bike, even switching bicycles twice before rejoining the peloton. He demonstrated remarkable determination by maintaining his position near the front for the remainder of the stage.
Final Results and Stage Breakdown
Jay Vine secured his victory, finishing the race ahead of Mauro Schmid of Switzerland by 1 minute and 3 seconds, with Harry Sweeny close behind. The last stage concluded with exciting sprint finishes:
| Cyclist | Team | Finish Time |
|---|---|---|
| Jay Vine | UAE Team Emirates | Winner |
| Mauro Schmid | Team Jayco Alula | 1:03 behind |
| Harry Sweeny | EF Education — EasyPost | 1:12 behind |
| Matthew Brennan | Team Visma | Stage Winner |
Following the race, Vine reflected on the challenges, stating that the competition had been fraught with mishaps but their persistence prevailed. “It’s proven to be not over ’til it’s over in this race for us,” he expressed, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of the sport.
Ultimately, Jay Vine’s victory in the Tour Down Under not only marked a personal achievement, but also highlighted the unique challenges cyclists face in their pursuit of success against the backdrop of wildlife and unexpected circumstances.
