The Belgian was involved in a mass crash with only 22 kilometres left in the race’s opening stage, with the field going an estimated 60 kph. He was said to be bleeding from the nose and mouth, leading to fears of a brain hemorrhage. However, this did not prove to be the case and he was diagnosed with a severe concussion.
He had been transferred from hospital in Valenciennes to one nearer home in Kortrijk, Belgium, and was released on Friday.
“It has not yet been decided how long he will be unavailable to race,” the team said.
Also severely injured in the crash was Frederik Frison of Lotto-Soudal, who suffered multiple pelvic fractures, three broken ribs, two fractures to the transverse process on his vertebrae, and a pneumothorax.
Get The Leadout Newsletter
The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!
