Eddy Merckx Hospitalized Again for Hip Infection; New Surgery Scheduled

Cycling legend Eddy Merckx has been hospitalized once again, facing a new set of complications from a hip injury that has plagued him for over a year. The 80-year-old Belgian icon, widely regarded as one of the greatest cyclists in history, has been back in the hospital since last Monday to treat a hip infection.

According to reliable reports, Merckx is scheduled to undergo another operation this coming Monday. The current health crisis is the latest chapter in a grueling medical ordeal that began with a bicycle accident in December 2024.

A Sudden Decline in Health

The most recent setback occurred abruptly. While Merckx appeared to be stable as of the Saturday preceding his admission, he woke up during the night experiencing severe pain. This rapid escalation led to his immediate hospitalization.

Medical staff are currently administering a course of antibiotics to manage the infection and reduce inflammation in the hip. This treatment is a necessary precursor to the surgery planned for Monday, as doctors aim to stabilize the area before intervening surgically.

For a global audience, this news marks a worrying trend for the man known as “The Cannibal,” whose resilience on the road is now being tested in a clinical setting. To clarify for those following the timeline, this is not a new injury, but a recurring complication from a fracture sustained nearly 16 months ago.

The Road to Recovery Since December 2024

The cycle of hospitalizations began in December 2024, when Merckx suffered a fall after tripping on a railroad crossing. The accident resulted in a hip fracture that has proven exceptionally hard to treat.

The medical journey following the fall has been marked by repeated failures and surgical attempts:

• Prosthesis Failures: An initial titanium prosthesis was implanted but failed to resolve the issue. A subsequent attempt using a cemented prosthesis also failed to produce a successful result.
• Surgical Volume: By the complete of 2025, Merckx had undergone six different operations related to his hip.
• Secondary Infections: In June 2025, during a reception at the royal palace in Brussels for his 80th birthday, Merckx revealed he was battling a cutaneous infection that required heavy antibiotic treatment.

Complications Beyond the Hip

The physical toll of the hip injuries extended beyond orthopedic issues. In August 2025, while hospitalized in Antwerp for hip treatment, Merckx suffered a minor stroke (AVC).

The incident was discovered by his daughter, who noticed that Merckx was experiencing blurred vision on his left side. A subsequent scan revealed a small cerebral hemorrhage. Merckx later noted that he had not initially realized the vision loss and did not lose his ability to speak, though he suggested the stroke may have been linked to medical treatment.

Legacy of a Champion

At 80 years old—turning 81 this coming June—Merckx’s current struggle stands in stark contrast to the dominance he displayed during his racing career. A five-time winner of the Tour de France, Merckx holds a record of 11 Grand Tour victories and 19 Monuments, credentials that cement his status as a pillar of the sport.

The ongoing battle with his hip has significantly limited the mobility of a man who spent his life redefining the limits of human endurance. The focus now remains on whether the upcoming surgery can finally resolve the infection and provide the stability needed for a sustainable recovery.

The next critical checkpoint for Merckx will be the outcome of his operation this Monday. Updates on his condition are expected following the procedure.

Do you have a favorite memory of Eddy Merckx’s legendary career? Share your thoughts in the comments below.