A cycling legend's close call: Roger De Vlaeminck, the outspoken 78-year-old, survives a scary car crash.
In a New Year's Eve incident that could have been far worse, Belgian cycling legend Roger De Vlaeminck was hospitalized after a car accident. The crash occurred during the early hours of January 1st, as De Vlaeminck was driving home from Bilzen to Kaprijke, a journey of approximately 155 kilometers. But here's where it gets dramatic: his car veered off the road and landed in a ditch in Zelzate.
Despite the severity of the accident, De Vlaeminck managed to exit the vehicle, albeit disoriented. Local reports suggest that the car overturned. Thankfully, medical assessments revealed only minor injuries, and he was taken to a hospital in Sint-Niklaas for treatment.
This incident comes on the heels of a controversial episode in De Vlaeminck's recent past. In late 2025, the cycling world was abuzz with his bold comments about modern cycling stars, including Tadej Pogacar, Mathieu van der Poel, and Remco Evenepoel. De Vlaeminck, a four-time Paris-Roubaix winner and a vocal critic, dismissed comparisons between Pogacar and the iconic Eddy Merckx, claiming that Pogacar wouldn't be able to keep up with him in the mountains. This sparked a heated debate, with many questioning the relevance of his comments.
And this is the part that sparked a media frenzy: Pogacar's response. When asked about De Vlaeminck's criticism, the modern champion took a different approach. He calmly stated that he evaluates himself and is unaffected by others' opinions, whether they overrate or underrate him. This contrast in reactions highlighted the generational and personality differences between the two cyclists.
Now, the focus shifts to De Vlaeminck's recovery. The cycling community breathes a sigh of relief that the legendary rider escaped with minor injuries. But the incident serves as a reminder of the fine line between a routine journey and a life-altering event. It also raises questions about the role of outspoken veterans in modern sports and the impact of their opinions on the current generation of athletes. What do you think? Is there a place for such controversial comments in sports, or should legends like De Vlaeminck adapt to the changing times?
