Wout van Aert is making encouraging progress in his recovery after suffering an ankle fracture earlier this winter, and the Belgian star could soon return to training on the bike. Despite undergoing surgery following his crash at the Exact Cross Mol, Van Aert remains optimistic that his 2026 road season will not be significantly disrupted.
The all-rounder, one of the peloton’s biggest names, is targeting a controlled but ambitious comeback, with Strade Bianche still firmly on his list of objectives.
Van Aert Recovering After Ankle Surgery
Van Aert fractured his ankle during the Exact Cross Mol, bringing his cyclocross campaign to an abrupt end and forcing him into surgery. While the injury initially raised concerns about his early-season road ambitions, the latest reports suggest his rehabilitation is progressing well.
According to Het Laatste Nieuws, Van Aert is expected to face limitations with walking and running in the short term. However, those restrictions may not prevent him from resuming cycling-specific training much sooner.
Indoor Training Could Begin Soon
Encouragingly for Van Aert and his fans, riding the bike indoors could be possible in the near future. This would allow the Belgian to maintain his aerobic base while carefully managing the load on his recovering ankle.
Indoor training often plays a crucial role in modern injury recovery, especially for elite riders aiming to limit fitness loss during rehabilitation. If Van Aert can return to structured indoor sessions soon, it would significantly boost his chances of staying on track for early-season goals.
Strade Bianche Still a Major Target
Despite the setback, Strade Bianche remains a clear objective for Van Aert. The gravel classic, held in early March, has long been a race he hopes to add to his palmarès.
Van Aert is reportedly aiming to join a February training camp, which would be a key step in preparing for the Italian one-day race. While his participation will ultimately depend on how his ankle responds to increased training intensity, the fact that Strade Bianche is still being considered is a positive sign.
Optimism for Van Aert’s 2026 Road Season
Although the injury has disrupted his winter plans, there is growing confidence that Van Aert’s 2026 road campaign will not be severely affected. A carefully managed recovery, combined with early indoor training and a focused build-up, could allow him to return to competition close to full strength.
For now, patience remains essential—but all signs point toward a steady and hopeful comeback.
FAQ: Wout van Aert Injury and Comeback
What injury did Wout van Aert suffer?
Wout van Aert suffered an ankle fracture during the Exact Cross Mol and required surgery to treat the injury.
When could Wout van Aert return to training?
According to reports, Van Aert could soon begin indoor bike training, even though walking and running will remain difficult in the short term.
Is Wout van Aert still targeting Strade Bianche?
Yes, Strade Bianche remains a key goal, and Van Aert hopes to prepare for it through a February training camp.
Will Van Aert’s 2026 season be affected by the injury?
While his preparation has been disrupted, Van Aert is optimistic that his 2026 road season will not be dramatically impacted.
Has Wout van Aert raced Strade Bianche before?
Yes, Van Aert has previously competed in Strade Bianche and has consistently identified the race as a major personal target.
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