\n<\/p>\n
“It’s going to be a long journey but I’m fully focused on my recovery and I\u2019m determined to come back stronger, step by step.<\/p>\n
“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.<\/p>\n
“Also a special mention for my wife, my family for standing by me in these difficult moments and to everyone for their supportive messages.<\/p>\n
“I also want to express my support to the woman who was involved in the accident.”<\/p>\n
Speaking on Belgian television later on, Soudal-Quick Step rider Evenepoel provided more details about the crash.<\/p>\n
“The accident happened quite quickly,” he told VTM.<\/p>\n
“I saw the woman from Bpost was opening her door.<\/p>\n
“I managed to distance myself, but I hit the door and I was catapulted to the other side of the road.<\/p>\n
“I will need time to recover. The first month I won’t be able to do anything pretty much.<\/p>\n
“Then we’ll measure the damage.”<\/p>\n
Evenepoel fractured his pelvis in 2020 when he experienced a horrific crash off a bridge in the Il Lombardia race.<\/p>\n
He won the 2022 Vuelta a Espana – his maiden Grand Tour victory – and finished third in his first Tour de France this year.<\/p>\n
Evenepoel won gold in the time trial and road race at the Paris Olympics this summer.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n