Alex Dowsett's hour record attempt in jeopardy after breaking collarbone in training crash

Alex Dowsett’s hopes of attempting to break the hour record next month hang in the balance after he broke his collarbone in a crash in training on Tuesday.

The 26-year-old Movistar rider is due to attack the hour record in London on February 27.

He is expected to undergo surgery on the fracture on Thursday and Movistar have said a decision on whether the attempt goes ahead as planned or is postponed will be made after the operation.

A team statement said: “Alex Dowsett and Movistar Team's hopes to take on a successful UCI hour record attempt were seriously damaged yesterday as the Essex-based rider suffered a crash during a training ride on home roads.

Far from ideal timing but will bounce back asap.

“Pain in his right-hand shoulder forced Dowsett to be moved to a hospital nearby, where radiological examinations confirmed a fracture in his collarbone.

“The severity of Dowsett's fracture will require surgery, which the Briton will likely undergo on Thursday.

“Details on whether Dowsett's attempt will go on as planned or be postponed will be specified in the next few days, subject to medical examination after his surgery and Dowsett's own consideration.”

Dowsett's record attempt is due to take place at the Lee Valley VeloPark on the first day of the Revolution Series meeting. Dame Sarah Storey is due to attempt the women's hour record at the same venue on February 28.

Dowsett tweeted: "Far from ideal timing but will bounce back asap."