Double Olympic champion Remco Evenepoel says he will “come back stronger” from surgery after breaking multiple bones in a crash.
The 24-year-old Belgian sustained rib, shoulder blade and hand fractures in a crash during training in Belgium on Tuesday.
He also suffered lung contusions, dislocated his right clavicle and tore several ligaments after reportedly colliding with the open door of a postal vehicle.
“After a scary accident on training yesterday, I underwent surgery last night and everything went well,” Evenepoel wrote on Instagram on Wednesday alongside a photo of him with his right arm in a sling.
“It’s going to be a long journey but I’m fully focused on my recovery and I’m determined to come back stronger, step by step.
“I’m very grateful for all the help and support I received the last 24 hours. From the emergency services, the neighbours that helped me in the first moment, the medical teams in Anderlecht and Herentals and our team doctor.
“Also a special mention for my wife, my family for standing by me in these difficult moments and to everyone for their supportive messages.
“I also want to express my support to the woman who was involved in the accident.”
In 2020 Evenepoel fractured his pelvis in a horrific crash off a bridge in the Il Lombardia race.
He won the 2022 Vuelta a Espana – his maiden Grand Tour victory – and finished third in his first Tour de France this year.
Evenepoel won gold in the time trial and road race at the Paris Olympics this summer.