"I have no memories of the crash" - Ivar Slik reflects on comeback from life-threatening crash

Six months after a life-threatening crash in the United States, Ivar Slik is looking forward to returning to the gravel racing circuit. The Dutch rider, who made history as the first European to win Unbound Gravel, has set his sights on the iconic event as his ultimate goal for 2025.

“I have no memories of the crash or the 10 days after,” Slik shared with Cyclingnews, recounting the terrifying incident on a remote dirt road in Arkansas. During a training ride on May 21, 2024, Slik collided head-on with a truck, suffering a concussion, fractured skull, broken nose, knee injury, and two brain hemorrhages. “In my head, it was just a slight concussion; I didn’t understand why everyone was so worried.”

Recovery was grueling, involving multiple surgeries and months of therapy. Slik revealed the emotional toll of his time off the bike, “It was painful to see the season slip by without me, but I knew I would be back. I learned much about myself and now know how much I love cycling.”

After months of perseverance, Slik has returned to full training. “I can do full weeks of training again without restrictions,” he explained, outlining his plans to compete in beach races in December to prepare for the 2025 gravel season. Looking ahead, he is targeting races like Gravel Locos, The Traka, and The Rift, as well as adventures like the Migration Gravel Race in Kenya and the Saga Gravel Race in Chile. Still, his primary focus remains on Unbound. “That’s more than a race; it’s an adventure. At least I want to equal my 2022 season, and the prospects are good. This year was a big setback, but I have been working very hard since then, and I am looking forward to next year with great confidence.”

Reflecting on the support he received throughout his recovery, Slik expressed deep gratitude: “I am incredibly grateful to my friends, family, and medical teams. Without them, this would not have been possible. It now feels like I’ve been given a second chance, and I will grab it with both hands.”