Paris 2024 Olympics road cycling: Ben O’Connor replaces injured Lucas Plapp

The Australian men’s road cycling team was forced to make a change after Lucas Plapp got injured during the individual time trial at the Paris 2024 Olympics.

Plapp sustained multiple injuries after crashing in wet conditions during last Saturday's 32km individual time trial. Ben O’Connor will replace him in the team.

The 23-year-old Lucas Plapp was clocking the fourth-best time at the first intermediate time check before slipping in wet conditions and colliding with a barrier fence. He had to be admitted to a hospital in France and underwent abdominal surgery.

“Luke is receiving the best of care in the hospital and is being well supported by our medical team,” said Australia’s Chef de Mission Anna Meares. “We expect he'll be out of hospital this week and wish him a speedy recovery.”

The 28-year-old Ben O’Connor will take the place of the two-time Australian time trial champion and join the road cycling team involving Simon Clarke and Michael Matthews for the 272km event.

“Ben has performed strongly this season and is currently in top form. He is very motivated to join his team-mates for the road race,” said Meares.

“His talent and versatility provide the team with options in different race scenarios which is highly valuable in a race that has fewer athletes per nation and doesn’t permit the use of race radios by the athletes.”

Ben O'Connor was last involved in action at the Giro d'Italia, where he finished fourth overall. The 28-year-old also secured second place at the Tour of the Alps and UAE Tour and began his season with a win at the one-day Vuelta a Murcia. He will make his Olympic debut at Paris 2024.