Evenepool was taken to hospital after a collision with a car during training in Brussels on Tuesday, where he was diagnosed with fractures to his right arm, right shoulder blade and rib, as well as lung injuries and a displaced collarbone.
Teh circumstances of the accident are still unclear,but Belgian media reported that Evenepool,while riding a bicycle,was unable to avoid a collision with the open door of a postal minibus. The cyclist was conscious after the accident.
He underwent surgery on Wednesday night, and the athlete said in his statement that he will have a long recovery period ahead. “I am fully focused on my recovery and I am determined to come back even stronger,” Evenepool said.
The Soudal Rapid-Step unit says that Evenepool will be on bed rest for the next two weeks, and only then will a rehabilitation period be planned.
This is not his first accident with serious injuries. In the 2020 Lombardy cycling race, the Belgian suffered a lung injury, but in this year’s Basque Contry cycling race, he broke his collarbone and shoulder blade.
At this year’s Olympic Games in Paris, the 24-year-old Belgian won the group race and also the individual race. He added gold in the individual race at the World Championships.
How can cyclists reduce the risk of accidents during training?
Q&A with Cycling Expert: The Impacts of Accidents on Cyclists’ Careers
Editor (Time.news): Today, we’re discussing a serious incident that recently occurred involving professional cyclist Remco Evenepoel. After colliding with a car during training in Brussels,he suffered multiple injuries,including fractures and lung injuries.Joining us is Dr. Anna Patel, a sports medicine expert specializing in injuries among cyclists. Dr. Patel, thank you for being here.
Dr.Anna Patel: Thank you for having me.It’s an important topic, especially given the rise of cycling both as a sport and a mode of transportation.
Editor: Let’s start with the accident itself.Evenepoel was reported to have collided with the open door of a postal minibus. What does this tell us about the dangers cyclists face on the road?
Dr.Patel: This incident highlights a notable risk for cyclists, particularly in urban settings. Open car doors can create sudden and unpredictable hazards. It’s not just about road conditions; cyclist visibility, motorist awareness, and cycling infrastructure all play a crucial role in ensuring safety.
editor: You mentioned safety infrastructure. What improvements could be made to better protect cyclists from accidents like this?
Dr. Patel: Cities could benefit from dedicated cycling lanes that are physically separated from traffic flow. Additionally, more education for drivers about the “Dutch Reach” method—which encourages them to look before opening their doors—could reduce collision risks. It’s also important for cyclists to remain vigilant and anticipate potential hazards, which can include parked cars.
Editor: Evenepoel has a long recovery ahead of him. What are typical rehabilitation procedures for cyclists recovering from serious injuries like fractures and lung injuries?
Dr. Patel: Recovery protocols typically involve several stages, starting with rest and gradually introducing physical therapy. For fractures, immobilization is crucial, followed by guided exercises to regain strength and adaptability. Lung injuries require careful monitoring; breathing exercises may be essential. Given Evenepoel’s competitive nature, focusing on mental health during this recovery phase is equally critical.
Editor: In light of Evenepoel’s history of serious injuries—having experienced lung damage in 2020 and fractures in the Basque Country race—how can athletes better prepare for potential setbacks in their careers?
Dr. Patel: Readiness is key. Athletes should work closely with their coaches and medical teams to develop thorough training plans that include injury prevention strategies. Understanding their physical limits and investing time in cross-training can also minimize the risk of injuries. It’s all about finding a balance to avoid chronic fatigue and overuse.
Editor: And with Evenepoel’s determination to come back stronger, what advice would you give to athletes facing similar situations?
Dr. Patel: Maintaining a positive mindset is vital. Committing to recovery, utilizing support systems, and setting realistic rehabilitation goals help. I would encourage athletes not to rush back into competition. It’s essential to build strength gradually and listen to their bodies during the recovery process.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Patel. As we see talented athletes like Evenepoel face such challenges,it reinforces the importance of safety in cycling and the need for robust support systems for recovery.
Dr. Patel: Absolutely. We hope to see advances in both safety measures and rehabilitation methods that encourage athletes not only to recover but to thrive post-injury.
Editor: We appreciate your insights today,Dr. Patel. It’s crucial for both cyclists and fans to understand the complexities athletes face, especially after such traumatic events.
Dr. Patel: Thank you again for having me. Let’s keep promoting safety and resilience in the sport we love.