Remco Evenepoel, the double Olympic road cycling champion, expressed confidence on Thursday about being in "very good shape" for the Tour de France this summer despite enduring a severe crash last month. The 24-year-old Belgian shared the positive results of his latest medical tests during a video press conference.

"I had my scan this morning and the results were pretty good," Evenepoel said. "I had my first physio session straight away after the scan, so it means my rehab can finally start from today, which is good news."

The leader of the Soudal Quick-Step team has been sidelined since December 3, following a collision with the open door of a stationary postal van during a training session in Brussels. The crash left him with multiple fractures, including a broken hand, ribs, and shoulder blade, along with contusions to his lungs, a dislocated collarbone, and torn ligaments.

Building Towards the Tour

Evenepoel plans to make his return for the Ardennes Classics in mid-April as part of his preparation for the Tour de France, which runs from July 5-27. He finished third in last year’s Tour and is determined to build on that performance. "We came pretty close last year, so that was a pretty good taste. Now we know what to do and what to work on," he said.

The 24-year-old emphasized a measured approach to recovery and training. "If everything goes well between now and the Tour, I have almost no doubts that I will be in very good shape. But it's clear I won't push myself to go all in straight away because the shoulder won't recover properly."

Despite the setback, Evenepoel is optimistic and ready to tackle the challenges ahead. "I'm definitely ready mentally now," he stated, as he looks to regain top form and aim for victory in cycling's most prestigious race.