Cyclist Arvid de Kleijn, a Dutch professional cyclist, was left unconscious after being assaulted by a gang of youths in the Netherlands.
According to reports, de Kleijn was cycling when he was confronted by a group of young men who began insulting him about his father’s death from cancer.
De Kleijn, 29, has been out of competition for several months due to the incident, and has spoken publicly about the trauma he has experienced.
Key moments
De Kleijn has revealed the shocking details of the assault, which left him shaken and unable to compete for several months.
‘They insulted me about the disease that killed my father,’ de Kleijn said in an interview. ‘I was left feeling very vulnerable and scared.’
De Kleijn has spoken about the long-term effects of the assault, including anxiety and depression.
Reaction
The cycling community has rallied around de Kleijn, with many expressing their support and solidarity with the cyclist.
‘It’s unacceptable that someone would attack a cyclist, especially for something as personal as a family tragedy,’ said a spokesperson for the Dutch Cycling Federation.
The incident has sparked a wider conversation about road safety and the need for greater support for cyclists.
Up next
De Kleijn is set to return to competition at the Tour de France next month, where he will compete alongside other top cyclists from around the world.
‘I’m looking forward to getting back on my bike and competing at the highest level,’ de Kleijn said in a statement.
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