Eddy Merckx: Cycling legend in hospital with head injury after bike crash

The 74-year-old was taken to Dendermonde hospital on Sunday after falling while out riding with friends

Eddy Merckx was riding with friends when he crashed (Getty)

Eddy Merckx, widely regarded as one of the greatest cyclists of all time, was rushed to hospital at the weekend after suffering a head injury in a bike crash, according to reports.

The 74-year-old was taken to Dendermonde hospital on Sunday after falling while out riding with friends, Belgian newspaper Het Nieuwsblad reported.

Friend Paul Van Himst told Belgian broadcaster Sporza: "I was in contact with his wife Claudine last night.

"According to her, it is, all in all, OK. Today, new tests are planned."

Belgian Merckx won 11 Grand Tours, including five in the Tour de France, and three world championships.

PA