Chris Froome: Israel–Premier Tech rider ‘relieved’ to be leaving hospital after life-threatening crash in Toulon
Updated 06/09/2025 at 09:32 GMT+1
Four-time Tour de France winner Chris Froome admitted he is "relieved" to leave hospital following his major training crash. The 40-year-old suffered serious injuries and had to undergo surgery but has posted a positive update on social media. Froome is in the fifth and final year of his contract with Israel-Premier Tech and has not raced in a Grand Tour since 2022.
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Chris Froome [Israel–Premier Tech] said he is "relieved to be heading home from the hospital" after his serious training crash in Toulon.
The 40-year-old was airlifted to the Sainte-Anne Toulon hospital and had to undergo surgery after suffering a collapsed lung, breaking five ribs and fracturing his lower back.
Froome’s wife Michelle revealed that he also sustained a pericardial rupture, which is a tear to the sac around the heart and can be fatal.
"It was obviously a lot more serious than some broken bones," Michelle told The Times.
"He’s fine but it’s going to be a long recovery process. He won’t be riding a bike for a while. Chris is happy for you to share this because people need to understand what is going on."
Froome’s recovery now looks set to continue out of the hospital after the four-time Tour de France winner posted a positive update on social media.
Accompanied by a picture of Froome holding hands with his daughter, he wrote: "Relieved to be heading home from the hospital today. Thanks to the staff at the HIA Sainte Anne."
Froome, who is in his fifth and final year of his contract with Israel-Premier Tech, claimed the iconic yellow jersey four times between 2013 and 2017 during an incredible run as part of Team Sky.
However, he has not ridden in any Grand Tours since 2022. His most recent race was at the Tour de Pologne in August, where he finished 68th overall.
His team said he was in "good spirits" following surgery.
"The procedures went as planned, and Chris is currently recovering in hospital under the care of his medical team.
"He is in good spirits and grateful for the excellent medical support he has received. Chris and his family would like to thank fans, friends, and the cycling community for their concern and kind messages during this time."
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