PSG goalkeeper Sergio Rico in intensive care after horse and cart accident

Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper Sergio Rico is being treated in intensive care for serious injuries suffered at El Rocio, a pilgrimage in his native Spain.

The 29-year-old, who started his career at Sevilla, was injured after being hit by a mule cart and a runaway horse. El Rocio, which takes place in Almonte, Huelva, in the province of Andalucia, involves a procession that includes people walking, riders on horseback and carts.

Rico was taken by helicopter to the Virgen del Rocio Hospital in Seville, where he is being treated for multiple injuries, including to his head. Some of the injuries are described as serious.

A PSG statement read: “PSG is aware of the accident of player Sergio Rico on Sunday and is in permanent contact with those close to him.

“Together the community of Red and Blue are offering all their support to him.”

Rico’s family, meanwhile, said later on Sunday: “Sergio Rico travelled last night from Strasbourg to Malaga and there to El Rocio, with the permission of the club after PSG won Ligue 1. After just over an hour and a half with his family and friends, he was on his way to the Pontifical Mass next to the chapel when he suffered an accident when a mule cart and a runaway horse hit him.

“Sergio is in good hands, fighting to recover while receiving the best care from the Virgen del Rocio medical team. We must act with caution, especially in the next 48 hours.

“We are waiting for the results of the medical evolution, which we hope will be favourable, so that we can inform you of his improvement as soon as possible.

“We are grateful for the expressions of affection, the messages and the interest of all those of you who are asking about the condition of the patient.”

Rico was an unused substitute during PSG’s 1-1 draw with Strasbourg at the Stade de la Meinau on Saturday, a result that confirmed PSG as Ligue 1 champions.

He joined PSG from Sevilla in 2020 having spent the previous season on loan at the Ligue 1 club.

Rico had a loan spell with Fulham during the 2018-19 campaign and made 29 appearances in all competitions as the west London side were relegated from the Premier League.

The goalkeeper has made 29 appearances for PSG during his four years at the club but has not featured for the first team during the 2022-23 season.