Overview
- During the stage-15 sprint in Milan on Sunday Zanoncello made head contact with Robert Donaldson, causing a heavy crash that Donaldson later said left him 'okay, somehow.'
- Race officials immediately disqualified Zanoncello and imposed a yellow card that stays for the season, a CHF 500 fine and 13 penalty points.
- Zanoncello posted an Instagram apology saying he lost control after being hit from the left and denied any intent to harm, and his team Bardiani‑CSF confirmed it will not appeal the decision.
- Broadcasters’ short TV clips leave intent unclear, with several reports noting other contact from the left before Zanoncello’s movement and prompting continued debate among riders and media.
- The case is notable because disqualifications are rare in Grand Tours and it sharpens scrutiny of sprint safety, race motorcycle operations and how juries judge incidents from limited camera angles.