Sonny Colbrelli, who was mortally wounded at the finish of the first stage of the 2022 Volta a Catalunya, is on the road to recovery.

After being admitted to hospitals in Girona and Italy, it was confirmed that Colbrelli, 31, suffered an unstable arrhythmia requiring defibrillation. Colbrelli, who finished second in the uphill sprint of San Feliu de Gixol, collapsed during the opening stage of the Volta a Catalunya before being transported by ambulance, requiring emergency treatment.

While in an Italian hospital in Padua, Colbrelli had a subcutaneous defibrillator placed under his collarbone. Since then he has undergone regular checkups at the University of Padua's Sports Cardiology Unit.

Colbrelli is spending time with his family at his home near Brescia, but recently visited shoe sponsor Sidi, and on Tuesday he carried the winning trophy from Milan to Verona as an ambassador for the Giro d'Italia.

According to the Bahrain Victorias team, the latest clinical tests show continued improvement in his cardiovascular health.

The former Paris-Roubaix and European road champion was initially optimistic about his chances of returning to racing, but the confirmation of his heart condition has made him and his doctors more cautious.

"The results of the clinical examination show further improvement in his cardiovascular health and Colbrelli can start leisure rides and light exercise," the Bahrain Victorias team said.

." Continued monitoring of his condition with close follow-up over the next few months to ensure his safety and resumption of regular life activities is a top priority."