I'm not used to sharing aspects of my private life or seeking compassion on social media. I use them mainly for my work and to tell stories about projects, sports and passions. But this time I feel the need to share an important thought!

We need more attention on the road. Always!! Whether you're a cyclist, a driver or a pedestrian, it doesn't really matter: we all have someone waiting for us at home, a family, friends, children. 

Fortunately, apart from a few dislocations, some fractures and a lot of fear, today I can tell the story. And honestly, in 16 years of professional cycling career, among millions of kilometers traveled all over the world, I had never experienced a situation like this.

I want to publicly thank Vincenzo Nibali: before being a champion, for me he is a brother. In a difficult moment he once again showed what kind of person he is. He immediately made sure that the other party was also fine and, at the same time, had the clarity of mind to ask for phone number, license plate and photos of the situation, because there was a feeling that someone might leave without providing their details.

I was on the ground, in pain in the middle of the road, while my friend @silvy_22_ was checking if I was okay and whether the blow to my head, after the fall I had taken, wasn't too serious. Vincenzo immediately called the ambulance and the carabinieri, even though in that area the phones barely had any signal. In the end we can say that everything turned out fine.

The bike can be repaired. The helmet can be replaced. A life, on the other hand, rarely comes back.

And after 16 years spent racing all over the world, not coming home this time because of a "moment of distraction" would have been truly absurd. Thanks to all the people who stood by me during those hours, to those who were outside the emergency room waiting for news and especially to my friend @francesco_buccitti82, who was my "shadow" while I wasn't lucid and couldn't manage the worry at home.

A heartfelt thank you to Alatri Hospital and to all the staff on duty: professional, humane and truly extraordinary. In the end everything can be overcome, but certain situations remind you how much everything can change in just a few seconds!