Matthias Kessler is in critical condition in a Mallorca hospital after a suffering severe head injuries in a training crash.
Fellow German rider Danilo Hondo told Cyclingnews that the crash occurred when a cat ran into Kessler's bike while he was riding near Algaida, Mallorca.
Hondo heard the news from Andreas Klöden of Team Radioshack who was training with Kessler at the time of the crash. Hondo was told that Kessler, 30, is in critical condition with a severe head trauma.
Cyclingnews will publish new details as they arrive.
Kessler turned pro with Team Telekom in 2000. He joined Team Astana along with Klöden in 2007. That spring Kessler tested positive for testosterone and was suspended for two years. His suspension ended in July 2009.
Thank you for reading 5 articles in the past 30 days*
Join now for unlimited access
Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1
*Read any 5 articles for free in each 30-day period, this automatically resets
After your trial you will be billed £4.99 $7.99 €5.99 per month, cancel anytime. Or sign up for one year for just £49 $79 €59
Join now for unlimited access
Try your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1