Belgian cycling star Wout van Aert has officially withdrawn from this year's Tour de France. His team, Visma-Lease a Bike, confirmed the decision Wednesday following complications from an elbow injury sustained during training at the Tour Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes.
The 31-year-old Paris-Roubaix champion was hospitalized after the wound became infected. Despite exploring all medical options, team management determined his recovery must take precedence over competition. Race coach Marc Reef emphasized that while Van Aert is vital to the squad, health remains the primary concern.
Van Aert expressed profound disappointment, noting the Tour is an annual priority. The ten-time stage winner and 2022 points jersey holder will now focus on rehabilitation. Visma-Lease a Bike plans to announce a replacement rider next week.
Two-time Tour winner Jonas Vingegaard will lead the Dutch team's general classification campaign. The race begins next month in Barcelona, with Vingegaard entering as the defending favorite following his recent Giro d'Italia triumph.