Dylan Groenewegen has been hit with a nine-month suspension by the UCI ©Getty Images

Dutch cyclist Dylan Groenewegen has been banned for nine months for his involvement in the Tour de Pologne crash that left Fabio Jakobsen with serious facial injuries.

The International Cycling Union (UCI) said Groenewegen "acknowledged that he deviated from his line" – which resulted in Jakobsen crashing into the barriers – and "accepted" the disciplinary decision.

The Team Jumbo-Visma rider’s ban will be backdated to August 5 – the date of the incident – and is due to end on May 7 next year.

Jakobsen of Deceuninck-Quick-Step was reportedly left with one tooth and required 130 facial stitches after colliding with compatriot Groenewegen at the end of the first stage of the UCI WorldTour race.

The 24-year-old was initially placed in a coma and underwent a five-hour operation before regaining consciousness two days later.

Speaking in August, Jakobsen said he was "grateful to be alive" as he continued his recovery.

Patrick Lefevere, team owner of Deceuninck-Quick-Step, initially described Groenewegen’s action as "criminal" before taking back his comments.

Following the conclusion of UCI’s disciplinary case, Team Jumbo-Visma issued a statement with director Richard Plugge saying he was "relieved" to have "clarity" on the situation.

Groenewegen also regretted what had happened and insisted he had no intention of endangering Jakobsen.

"The crash in the first stage of the Tour of Poland will forever be a black page in my career," said the 27-year-old.

Fabio Jakobsen's bike flies into the barriers while Dylan Groenewegen, left, crashes to the ground ©Getty Images
Fabio Jakobsen's bike flies into the barriers while Dylan Groenewegen, left, crashes to the ground ©Getty Images

"During the sprint I deviated from my line.

"I am sorry because I want to be a fair sprinter.

"The consequences were very unfortunate and serious.

"I am very aware of that and I hope this has been a wise lesson for every sprinter.

"I follow the news of Fabio’s recovery very closely.

"I can only hope that one day he will return completely.

"Closing the disciplinary matters creates clarity.

"That gives me the opportunity to look ahead again.

"I am happy about that, even though May 7 is still far away.

"I am happy with the support I get from Team Jumbo-Visma, my family and friends.

"Together we will work towards that day both mentally and physically."

The UCI said Groenewegen also agreed to take part in "a number of events to the benefit of the cycling community" during his suspension.