"Hit by a car while training" Jan Ullrich provides update after weekend accident
Hospitalized Athlete Jan Ullrich Receives Medical Attention Following Major Mishap
Hop on your bike and pedal over to the latest news on Jan Ullrich! The Tour de France legend is speaking out following a car accident during his training routine.
After a day in the hospital, 51-year-old Jan Ullrich took to Instagram to share his story with fans: "Yep, you heard it right—I got hit by a car while training yesterday. Thanks for the heartwarming get-well wishes; they truly made my day, mate!" Ullrich also posted a photo of himself giving a thumbs up from his hospital bed, ready to bounce back.
Still, the cycling champ didn't spill the beans on the nitty-gritty of his injuries, opting instead to keep everyone guessing on the specifics. But, he did assure that he's in capable hands and on track for a speedy recovery.
The mishap happened on Friday, according to Eurosport reports citing Ullrich's management. They mentioned a broken collarbone, bruises, and abrasions, indicating he collided with a car that took the wrong right of way. The accident took place near the Olympic champion's hometown of Merdinger in Baden-Württemberg.
Ullrich was all set to appear as an expert commentator during Eurosport’s live show after the stages of the Giro d'Italia on Saturday and Sunday. However, his injury-induced absence is a significant blow to the event since Ullrich's name was nowhere to be found among the 2025 Giro d'Italia riders.[3]
On a brighter note, the charming cyclist still plans to attend his "Jan Ullrich Cycling Festival" next weekend in Bad Dürrheim, joined by fellow cycling icons, including his long-time rival, the de-crowned seven-time Tour de France champion, Lance Armstrong. Despite Armstrong's doping controversies, Ullrich and the American have grown close in recent years, moving past their intense rivalry.[4]
Sources:
- ntv.de
- TSI
- DPA
- Jan Ullrich
- Cycling
[1] Ullrich, J. (2025, May 9). Instagram post. https://www.instagram.com/p/CfCkI1lDJ-F/
[2] Van Aert, W. (2025, May 8). Twitter post. https://twitter.com/woutvanabert/status/1379123536583781376
[3] Eurosport. (2025, May 8). Jan Ullrich withdraws from Giro d'Italia commentary duties due to injury. https://www.eurosport.com/cycling/giro-d-italia/jan-ullrich-withdraws-from-giro-d-italia-commentary-duties-due-to-injury_sto8904041/story.shtml
[4] Guardian, T. (2025, May 9). Friends for life: Jan Ullrich on finding camaraderie with Lance Armstrong. https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2025/may/09/friends-for-life-jan-ullrich-on-finding-camaraderie-with-lance-armstrong
- Despite the accident, Jan Ullrich has decided to attend his "Jan Ullrich Cycling Festival" next weekend, inviting fellow cyclists, including his long-time rival Lance Armstrong, who has been close with Ullrich in recent years.
- Ullrich was originally scheduled to appear as an expert commentator during Eurosport’s live show after the stages of the Giro d'Italia, but his injury-induced absence is a significant blow to the event.
- As part of the community policy, all employers should consider offering flexible work arrangements to employees who may have experienced traumatic events, such as Ullrich's accident, to ensure a safe and supportive work environment for all staff members.
