Chris Froome, who underwent surgery after crashing out of the Criterium du Dauphine, expressed his gratitude towards fans, family and medical staff from his hospital bed this afternoon.
The Team Ineos rider said in a statement that he wanted to thank everyone who had sent him their best wishes since the crash.
“This is obviously a tough time but I have taken a lot of strength from the outpouring of support over the last three days. It has been really humbling and something I would never have expected.”
He added that he would also like to show his gratitude to his team, Doctor Richard Usher and the medical staff.
“I am so thankful to the emergency services and everyone at Roanne Hospital who assisted and stabilised me, as well as the surgeons, doctors and nurses at the University Hospital of St Etienne, who have really gone above and beyond the call of duty.
“I know how lucky I am to be here today and how much I owe to all the paramedics and medical staff on the race.”
The four-time Tour de France champion also thanked his wife Michelle and family who have been with him through the entire process.
“Their love and support will motivate me to return as quickly as possible”
The 34-year-old reportedly crashed at 55km/h on a recon of stage four of the Dauphine, sustaining internal injuries and fracturing multiple bones.
“A long road to recovery lies ahead, but that recovery starts now and I am fully focused on returning back to my best,” said the Brit.
