Parisien first reserve for Vuelta a Espana

WorldTour team Argos-Shimano has named Canada’s François Parisien as the first reserve rider for the upcoming Vuelta a Espana, beginning on August 24 in Vilanova de Arousa and concluding on September 15 in Madrid.

“No Vuelta for me,” Parisien said. “I’m the first reserve.”

The Repentigny, Que., native was hoping to compete in his first grand tour this year after winning Stage 5 at the Volta a Catalunya. Argos-Shimano has already announced the 12-rider long list for the Vuelta, however, the team has yet to publicly confirm the nine-man roster.

Parisien recently finished 41st place at the Clasica Ciclista San Sebastian in Spain. He had an unfortunate crash this week and had to spend a night in the hospital. He confirmed via an update on Facebook that he has no broken bones but is recovering from bruising and multiple abrasions to his rib cage.