Matthias Kessler has been put into an induced coma following surgery Friday, and is said to no longer be in critical condition.
"Matthias Kessler suffered a severe brain trauma. The rider is in serious condition," said a spokesman of the San Dureta Hospital in Palma, Mallorca, according to the SID news agency.
The former T-Mobile and Astana rider crashed while training earlier this week, when a cat ran into his path. It is not known whether he was wearing a helmet.
The 30-year-old was suspended for two years for testosterone doping. His suspension ended last summer, and he had not yet found a new team.
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