Cycling legend Eddy Merckx has been hospitalized once again to treat a recurring infection in his hip, marking a challenging period for the 80-year-old Belgian icon. The “Cannibal,” widely regarded as one of the greatest cyclists in history, has been back in clinical care since last Monday, according to reports from Belgian media outlets including Sporza and La Dernière Heure.
The current medical emergency is a complication arising from a series of health struggles that began following a bicycle accident in December 2024. Merckx, who will turn 81 in June, has spent the last several months battling repeated hip complications and infections, leading to multiple hospitalizations and surgical interventions RTBF.
According to reliable information obtained by Sporza, Merckx is currently receiving antibiotic treatment to manage the infection. However, the condition has proven stubborn; after waking up with severe pain the Saturday prior to his admission, he was readmitted to the hospital. A new surgical operation is scheduled for Monday, April 13, 2026, to address the ongoing issue VRT NWS.
This latest setback is part of a grueling medical timeline for the former five-time Tour de France winner. Since his initial fall, Merckx has undergone six separate operations on his hip, including the replacement of a prosthesis RMC Sport. His recovery has been further complicated by a minor stroke (AVC) suffered in August 2025, adding to the physical toll of the past 18 months.
A Timeline of Medical Complications
The root of Merckx’s current struggles dates back to December 2024, when he suffered a fall after tripping on a level crossing while cycling. This accident resulted in a hip fracture that has proved exceptionally tough to treat. The medical approach has evolved through several stages, moving from a titanium prosthesis to a cemented prosthesis and finally to a definitive prosthesis, yet the “Ogre of Tervuren” continues to face setbacks RTBF.
The frequency of these interventions highlights the severity of the complications. Between late 2024 and early 2026, Merckx has faced a total of six operations related to the hip fracture RMC Sport. The recurring nature of the infection suggests a persistent struggle to stabilize the joint and clear the bacterial presence associated with the prosthetic implants.
Adding to these orthopedic challenges was a neurological event in August 2025. While hospitalized in Antwerp for hip treatment, Merckx’s daughter noticed he was experiencing blurred vision in his left eye. A subsequent scan revealed a small cerebral hemorrhage, described as a minor stroke (AVC) RMC Sport. Merckx later noted that he did not lose his speech and was unaware of the vision loss initially.
| Date/Period | Event | Details |
|---|---|---|
| December 2024 | Bicycle Accident | Fall at a level crossing resulting in a hip fracture. |
| 2025 (Various) | Surgical Interventions | Six operations performed on the hip, including prosthesis changes. |
| August 2025 | Minor Stroke (AVC) | Cerebral hemorrhage discovered during hip treatment in Antwerp. |
| April 2026 | Current Hospitalization | Admitted for hip infection; antibiotic treatment and scheduled surgery. |
The Impact of Recurring Infections in Prosthetics
For an athlete of Merckx’s age, the combination of multiple surgeries and recurring infections presents a significant challenge. In medical terms, prosthetic joint infections can be notoriously difficult to eradicate, often requiring “wash-out” procedures or the complete replacement of the implant to remove biofilm—a layer of bacteria that adheres to the metal or plastic of the prosthesis.
The fact that Merckx has transitioned through three different types of prostheses—titanium, cemented, and a final definitive version—indicates the complexity of his case. The current hospitalization is not the first time he has been a victim of such an infection, suggesting a chronic vulnerability in the surgical site RTBF.
The physical and mental toll of these repeated admissions is evident. Reports indicate that the legend has expressed frustration with the ongoing “nonsense” of these complications, reflecting the exhaustion that comes with a year and a half of intermittent hospital stays and surgical recoveries.
What This Means for the Cycling Legend
Eddy Merckx remains a towering figure in global sports, and his health is a matter of significant public interest in Belgium and beyond. While the current infection is serious, the use of targeted antibiotic treatment is the standard first line of defense to stabilize the patient before surgery. The goal of the upcoming operation on Monday is to resolve the infection and finally provide the stability the 80-year-old needs to regain his mobility VRT NWS.
The intersection of orthopedic failure and the August 2025 stroke highlights the fragility that can accompany advanced age, even for those who spent their youth in peak physical condition. The focus now remains on the success of the seventh surgery in this cycle and the subsequent rehabilitation process.
Key Takeaways
- Current Status: Eddy Merckx is hospitalized for a recurring hip infection and is receiving antibiotics.
- Surgical Plan: A new operation is scheduled for Monday, April 13, 2026.
- Medical History: The issues stem from a December 2024 bicycle fall, leading to six prior hip surgeries.
- Additional Health Concerns: Merckx suffered a minor stroke (AVC) in August 2025 while being treated for his hip.
- Prosthetic Journey: He has undergone multiple prosthesis changes (titanium, cemented, and definitive) to manage the fracture.
The next critical checkpoint for the cycling legend will be the outcome of the surgery scheduled for Monday. We will continue to monitor official updates regarding his recovery and stability following the procedure.
Do you have memories of “The Cannibal’s” legendary career? Share your thoughts and well-wishes for Eddy Merckx in the comments below.