'I’ve got the worst of it out of the way' – Neve Bradbury settles in to the waiting game after surgery to treat Iliac artery endofibrosis

Neve Bradbury, the promising Australian rider for Canyon-SRAM, is beginning her recovery following surgery to address iliac artery endofibrosis, a condition that had been hindering her performance. The 24-year-old, who recently impressed with a stage win and a third-place overall finish at the 2024 Giro d’Italia, underwent the procedure after enduring a difficult period marked by symptoms such as leg heaviness, weakness, and numbness. Although her rehabilitation will be gradual, Bradbury remains optimistic about returning to competitive form. Canyon-SRAM’s medical team detailed the challenges Bradbury faced, highlighting the importance of careful post-operative care to prevent complications like excessive scar tissue. Team doctor Carola Lamm emphasised that the initial focus is on wound healing and restoring normal daily function, with the timeline for resuming training and racing still uncertain. Early signs of recovery are encouraging, but the team acknowledges that patience will be essential as Bradbury navigates this critical phase. Bradbury’s experience is not unique in women’s professional cycling, where several riders have successfully returned after similar surgeries, including Pauline Ferrand-Prévot and fellow Australians Sarah Gigante and Amanda Spratt. Having turned professional at 18 after winning the Zwift Academy, Bradbury is determined to join their ranks. She expressed confidence that the surgery went well and that the most difficult part is behind her, maintaining a positive outlook on her eventual comeback to the sport’s highest level. Looking ahead, Bradbury’s season will largely depend on how her recovery progresses, with the team carefully monitoring her condition to determine when she can safely resume structured training and competition. Her case underscores the physical demands and medical challenges faced by elite cyclists, while also highlighting the resilience required to overcome setbacks and continue pursuing success at the top of the sport.