“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.”

Speaking on Belgian television later on, Soudal-Quick Step rider Evenepoel provided more details about the crash.

“The accident happened quite quickly,” he told VTM.

“I saw the woman from Bpost was opening her door.

“I managed to distance myself, but I hit the door and I was catapulted to the other side of the road.

“I will need time to recover. The first month I won’t be able to do anything pretty much.

“Then we’ll measure the damage.”

Evenepoel fractured his pelvis in 2020 when he experienced 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.