Frenchman Jerome Pineau was involved in an accident at his home that could have blinded the Quick-Step rider.
“I was handling the battery of my scooter when, all of a sudden it slipped out of my hands,” Pineau explained. “A splatter of battery acid landed in my right eye. The pain was terrible. Thankfully an Eye specialist lives nearby and was able to visit me straight away reassuring me that my eye was ok and that I hadn’t damaged it.”
Initially the cyclist lost his vision and was concerned for his future. “I can assure you it was a relief because, as soon as it happened I couldn’t see a thing,” said the rider.
Pineau has decided not to train today, and will decide about participating in Haut Var over the weekend. “I’ll wait and see how things are tomorrow morning,” Pineau continued, “then we’ll decide whether I can take part or not in the race this weekend.”