Wout van Aert, one of the most talented and beloved cyclists in the international cycling scene, will not participate in the upcoming Tour de France. The decision was made following an elbow injury that the Belgian sustained during a training session a few days before the Tour Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes.

The accident led to an unexpected infection in the wound, forcing Van Aert to abandon the race and undergo further medical treatment.
Recently, Van Aert had to face a deep and demanding wound disinfection in the hospital and spent a night under observation. After consulting with the cyclist, the medical staff and athletic trainers of Team Visma | Lease a Bike decided that his complete recovery must be the priority.

Wout van Aert's words: «It is obviously a huge disappointment. The Tour de France is one of my main objectives every year. Unfortunately, a fall during training complicated things and the elbow injury worsened and has not yet healed sufficiently. Together with the team we concluded that at the moment it is not possible to start the Tour at my best. Now I am completely focused on recovery so I can return to my best level later in this season».

Sports director Marc Reef adds: «Wout is one of the most important riders on our team and of course we would have liked to have him at the start of the Tour. Over the last few days we have evaluated all options, but ultimately his health comes first. With the time needed for recovery, it is not possible for him to reach peak fitness in time for the Tour de France. It is a shame that he cannot be there, but we are convinced that this is the right decision for his recovery and for the rest of his season».

In the statements released by the team, it is clear that the decision was made after careful evaluation. For the Belgian, the priority now is to focus on recovery to return to form for the rest of the season.

The team is already prepared to manage this situation, having considered possible withdrawals in advance. Van Aert's replacement will be announced on June 23, coinciding with the presentation of the final lineup for the Tour de France. Despite his absence, Team Visma | Lease a Bike will continue to rely on other talented riders.

From 2019 to today, Wout van Aert has participated in seven editions of the Tour de France, demonstrating his value and determination. His absence will be felt, but health is fundamental, and all fans hope to see him back in action soon. As the Tour approaches, attention now shifts to the riders who will take his place, while the rest of the team prepares to face the challenge of this prestigious competition without one of its key elements.