Chris Froome's surgeon says he's optimistic about his cycling future after a second night in intensive care.

The four-time Tour de France champion needed an operation after multiple serious injuries sustained in a high speed crash in France on Wednesday.

Froome is facing around around six months out but his surgeon Remi Philippot has told the BBC that the operation was a 'success'.

"Chris was totally awake - he wanted to know when he can cycle again.

"Professional sports people are very good mentally and want to win but maybe I think I have to slow him down because he's very quick and wants to go fast but bone healing needs at least two months so we have to be patient."

Team Ineos doctor Richard Usher is upbeat about the 34-year-old's recovery.

"First things first, the surgery was a success, he operation, which lasted for six hours, went very well.

"Chris woke up and was reviewed by the intensive care consultants and the orthopaedic specialist who operated on him and they're both very happy with his progress to date.

"Chris will remain in hospital for the next few days for observation, but he is already actively engaging in discussing his rehabilitation options, which is very encouraging."

Froome could win a seventh Grand Tour title while in hospital after the UCI announced that they'll strip Juan Jose Cobo of his 2011 Vuelta Espana crown after the retired Spaniard was found guilty of an anti-doping violation.