Van der Poel attacker feeling guilty for his action at Paris-Roubaix

A 28-year-old Belgian man has apologised after hurling a plastic bottle at former world champion Mathieu van der Poel during Sunday's Paris-Roubaix race, an act that led to a criminal investigation by French authorities.

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In an email released by Flemish daily Het Nieuwsblad on Wednesday, the man from Waregem expressed deep regret for what he described as a "stupid and dangerous" moment of impulsivity.

"I am so happy that he crossed the finish line first on Sunday, despite my stupid action," he wrote.

"A water bottle was in the grass. I picked it up and threw it when he passed. Without thinking.

Half a second later, I realised how stupid and dangerous it was.

The man, who admitted to having "drunk a lot" that day, said he felt ashamed for days after the incident and extended an apology to Van der Poel, other riders, and cycling fans.

Dutch Alpecin-Deceuninck rider Van der Poel was struck in the face by the bottle while riding solo at high speed over a cobbled section with 33km remaining.