Kris Boeckmans out of induced coma

Kris Boeckmans has been able to communicate with his family and doctors after being taken out of an induced coma.

On August 30, Boeckmans was involved in a crash during the eighth stage of the Vuelta a Espana, which saw him sustain concussion, facial injuries and fractured ribs.

His team, Lotto-Soudal, initially believed that Boeckmans would remain in an induced coma for "a few days", but after almost two weeks, the Belgian is conscious and able to speak with those around him.

However, the 28-year-old will remain in intensive care until he can be flown back to Belgium, where he will undergo facial surgery.