Veteran cyclist Wout van Aert‘s team has recently shared an update regarding the injury he sustained during the Vuelta A Espana. The athlete had to exit the race midway after he unfortunately crashed on stage 16. But what actually happened to the cyclo-cross racer?
Here are all the available updates regarding Wout van Aert’s injury, including his estimated return.
How did Wout van Aert get injured at Vuelta A Espana?
Wout van Aert injured his left knee after crashing on the descent of the Collada Llomena on stage 16. As a consequence of the wound he sustained, he has had to abandon the Vuelta A Espana.
The 29-year-old sportsman started the contest impressively, assuming the lead quite early. Wout van Aert continued to maintain pole position in the race for the first two climbs, before losing his place due to his crash on stage 16. With over 50km remaining, the crash had injured his knee.
The Visma-Lease a Bike rider made a frantic attempt to rejoin the proceedings with a replacement bike. However, Van Aert experienced much discomfort while pedaling and decided to give up after a few hundred meters.
When will Wout van Aert return to cycling?
As per the latest update from the Visma team, Wout van Aert’s injury requires intensive care but does not include any fractures. Nevertheless, it is currently unknown when the cyclist can return to complete fitness.
In an official statement released by his team, it was disclosed that Wout van Aert will undergo treatment in Belgium, as per Cyclingnews. “The three-time stage winner had to withdraw due to severe knee pain caused by a deep wound,” the message read. “That wound requires intensive care. Wout will travel back to Belgium to continue his recovery.”
Following Van Aert’s injury, Spanish rider Marc Soler proceeded to secure victory in the stage. Filippo Zana finished 18 seconds behind Soler, with British youngster Max Poole rounding off the top three.
