"The past few weeks, I've received the news from multiple doctors that it's no longer medically advisable, for me, to ride my bike. I've always shared the beautiful moments with you, but now I also wanted to share this news. That unfortunately it's no longer possible for me to continue my career."

These are the lapidary words of 28-year-old Eli Iserbyt, Belgian cyclocross specialist who has totaled 54 victories in his career, almost all with the Pauwels Sauzen jersey, to which two overall World Cup classifications can be added. Two months ago we explained his situation, his inability to take part in the current winter season due to continuous problems with his left femoral artery, persistent despite surgical interventions: the concerns expressed by our Francesca Monzone in her detailed article have effectively turned into sad reality. After being crowned European champion in 2020, twice U23 world champion and subsequently twice on the world podium among professionals behind Pidcock, Van Der Poel and Van Aert, Iserbyt has to leave cycling prematurely.

We can only join the comments of many people, including VDP, under his announcement video on Instagram: Veel Sterkte, Dutch and Flemish equivalent of "Stay strong!"