Chris Froome’s spouse has emphasized the miraculous survival of the renowned cyclist following a harrowing bike accident that now jeopardizes his professional cycling career.
Froome was airlifted to a hospital in the previous week after a training ride mishap in southern France. The incident, where he struck a road sign after hitting a curb at high speed, necessitated surgery for the 40-year-old.
His team, Israel-Premier Tech, disclosed that the four-time Tour de France victor sustained severe injuries including a pneumothorax, five fractured ribs, and a lumbar vertebrae fracture. In addition to a collapsed lung and spinal injury, Froome endured a more critical pericardial rupture.
His wife, Michelle, expressed, “It was clearly more severe than just broken bones. He’s stable, but the path to recovery will be lengthy. He won’t be back on a bike anytime soon.”
The crash occurred at speeds exceeding 30mph, causing a pericardial rupture – a tear in the heart’s sac. Fortunately, Froome received immediate treatment at the specialized Sainte Anne Toulon military hospital, where the tear was successfully repaired.
Given the potentially fatal nature of a pericardial rupture, medical experts closely monitor Froome to prevent cardiac complications. Any future decisions regarding his cycling career are on hold, raising doubts about his return to professional cycling.
Residing in Monaco, Froome, a father of two, is focused on recuperation. His latest race was at the Tour de Pologne in August, finishing 68th overall.
With his contract set to expire soon and retirement discussions underway, Froome’s legacy as one of the greatest cyclists remains intact. Having triumphed in numerous Grand Tours, including the Tour de France and Giro d’Italia, Froome’s cycling achievements are widely celebrated.
Post-surgery, Israel-Premier Tech affirmed, “Chris has undergone successful surgery for his recent injuries. He is currently recovering in the hospital, appreciative of the exceptional medical care he has received. Chris and his family extend their gratitude to fans, friends, and the cycling community for their support during this challenging period.”