Marc Hirsch crashed on the opening stage of the Volta ao Algarve and broke his forearm, forcing him out of the race for up to eight weeks.

The Swiss rider rejoined the race and made it to the finish in Lagos, but was unable to ride the second stage.

On Thursday morning, UAE Team Emirates confirmed Hirschi's injury and that he is not expected to race until mid-April.

"Marc Hirschi, who crashed in the first stage of the Volta Algarve, has unfortunately been diagnosed with a fractured right radius. (Open in new tab)

"He will return home for further medical attention and is expected to be out for up to 8 weeks. We wish Marc all the best in his recovery."

Hip surgery and illness hampered Hirschi in 2022, but he ended the year on a high with wins at the Giro della Toscana and the Veneto Classic.

"I want to carry this level into the next season and take steps to win big races," Hirschi told reporters after his victory in Bassano del Grappa in October.

Hirschi began the 2023 season in Australia, finishing 11th overall in the Tour Down Under and eighth in the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Race.

Earlier this week, the 2020 Flèche Wallonne winner won the Classica Haen Paraiso Interior with Tadei Pogacar and placed fourth himself.

And now he is looking to bounce back from yet another injury.