Sam Bennett Undergoes Heart Procedure, Eyes Competitive Comeback

Cyclist Sam Bennett, a former champion of the Tour de France, recently revealed he underwent a heart procedure last autumn to address atrial fibrillation. The procedure occurred on November 18, 2023, following a sudden onset of heart flutters and palpitations in mid-November.

After experiencing these alarming symptoms, the Tipperary native promptly sought medical attention. Tests conducted the following day indicated the need for further intervention. Subsequently, Bennett traveled to Frankfurt, Germany, where he underwent an ablation procedure. This treatment involves accessing the heart through a vein in the leg and eliminating the errant tissue causing the irregular heartbeat.

“It’s quite straightforward,” Bennett shared with The Irish Times. “When you’ve been stuck in AFib for a few days and you come out on the other side, it felt so smooth and so calm.”

Bennett has chosen to speak publicly about his experience to raise awareness of atrial fibrillation, which is relatively common among endurance athletes. He emphasized the importance of modern technology in diagnosis, recommending smartwatches equipped with ECG capabilities. “If I was going to share one message, it’s that if people can afford to get a smartwatch that has ECG, they can catch it in the moment,” he advised.

An electrocardiogram (ECG) monitors the heart’s rhythm and electrical activity. Bennett noted, “AFib is quite a common thing, and it can really be treated.” His experience has highlighted the significance of early detection and intervention.

Following his procedure, Bennett temporarily halted his training, and his return was further delayed due to a bout of flu over the Christmas period. He resumed training on January 10, 2024, and while he described his fitness level as “at zero,” he has since observed rapid improvements.

The impact of the procedure on his performance remains uncertain. Although Bennett experienced symptoms only recently, he speculated that the condition may have affected him for several years. Once recognized as one of cycling’s top sprinters, having won two stages and the green jersey in the 2020 Tour de France, Bennett has not secured a WorldTour victory since claiming two stages at the 2022 Vuelta a España. His performance was hindered after contracting COVID-19 during that event.

“I gave the heart specialist feedback of what I felt the last two, three seasons,” Bennett explained. “It’s not a given, but it’s possible that I was having mini episodes going into sprints, because I always felt something was off.” He described moments of confusion during races: “I couldn’t push. I would go into the sprint, and I’d be fine, but when I’d go to get off the saddle I just had to sit back down.”

Bennett expressed optimism about his future in cycling, aiming to return to competition in March. His ambitions include participating in the Tour de France or another Grand Tour later in the season. “I just want to hit my best level again. I want to be in the races competing,” he stated. “I don’t want to be just making up numbers.”

As he prepares for his comeback, Bennett’s journey serves as a reminder of the importance of heart health, especially for athletes. His story underscores the potential for recovery and the role of technology in proactive health management.