La Hague (France) (AFP)
Dutch cyclist Niki Terpstra suffered a heavy fall during training on Tuesday in the Netherlands, and had to be transported by helicopter to the hospital, his wife announced on Instagram.
Even if his vital prognosis does not seem committed, the Dutchman suffers from several injuries and his 2020 season seems very compromised.
"Unfortunately, the bad news is true. Niki had a serious accident today during a bike workout. He is in hospital and will have to stay here for a few more days. danger of death, but it will take time to recover, "said Ramona Terpstra on social media.
Terpstra, 36, a member of the French team Total Direct Energie, fell while training with friends near Lelystad in central Netherlands.
According to the Dutch media NOS, he was riding behind a moped when he suddenly had to swerve to avoid hitting geese. He then violently struck a rock.
The Dutchman is said to be suffering from a collapsed lung, a concussion and to have broken ribs and collarbone.
A specialist in classics, he had notably won the Tour of Flanders (2018) and Paris-Roubaix (2014).
Last year, Terpstra had already suffered a heavy concussion following a fall during the Tour of Flanders. He then broke his shoulder blade after falling during a stage of the Tour de France, which forced him to abandon the race.
© 2020 AFP