Bernal has made remarkable progress to return to racing with the team, testimony to the focus and dedication of the rider, the rigorous efforts of his medical team and the many who have supported him throughout his journey back to race-readiness. Following a final assessment over the weekend, the INEOS Grenadiers’ medical team signed off the Colombian to race again; he is delighted to be able to take this important step and line up alongside his fellow Grenadiers tomorrow in Denmark.
Egan Bernal said: “After what happened to me in January this has been the moment I’ve been waiting for – to race with my teammates again. I can’t emphasise enough how hard the last eight months have been for me, both physically and mentally. That day, and the journey that I have been on since will be a part of me forever, it’s something you never forget.
“As is the support that I have received from my family, my girlfriend, the Team, INEOS as well as my fans. As humans we really rely on each other in our times of need, and this year has been a time of need for me – I can’t thank everyone who has been there for me enough. That support has been invaluable in motivating me every day to work hard to be able to race again. To you all, a heartfelt thank you.”
Rod Ellingworth, Deputy Team Principal said: “When you think back to where Egan was only eight months ago it’s incredible the progress he has made. He’s shown the world the true strength of his character, and demonstrated remarkable grit in returning to race-readiness. We’re still on a journey with Egan, but lining up at the Tour of Denmark is a significant and hard-earned milestone.
“Egan’s long-term recovery has and continues to guide our medical and physical programme of support – our targets have always been performance-led not race-led, and the entire INEOS Grenadiers family is proud and delighted for Egan that his determination and application will now see him return to the race environment he has craved for so long.”
