Belgian cycling star Wout van Aert is set to undergo ankle surgery following a serious crash at the Exact Cross in Mol, bringing an abrupt end to his cyclo-cross season. The injury means van Aert will miss the final cyclo-cross showdown against long-time rival Mathieu van der Poel, a matchup widely anticipated by fans of the sport.
Serious Crash at Exact Cross in Mol
The incident occurred during the Exact Cross race in Mol, where van Aert suffered a heavy crash that immediately raised concerns about his condition. Medical assessments later confirmed that the injury to his ankle was significant enough to require surgery, ruling out any possibility of a quick return to competition.
The Mol race is known for its challenging course, and the crash highlighted the inherent risks of elite cyclo-cross racing, even for experienced professionals like van Aert.
Ankle Surgery Ends Cyclo-Cross Campaign
Following consultations with medical specialists, the decision was made for van Aert to undergo ankle surgery to ensure proper recovery and long-term stability. While the procedure is expected to succeed, it effectively ends his cyclo-cross season and forces him to focus on rehabilitation rather than racing.
This development confirms that van Aert will not compete in the final cyclo-cross race of the season, a high-profile event that was set to feature another chapter in his rivalry with Mathieu van der Poel.
Missed Showdown with Mathieu van der Poel
The absence of van Aert from the final race is a significant blow for cyclo-cross fans. His battles with Mathieu van der Poel have defined the modern era of the discipline, delivering intense competition and global attention.
While van der Poel is expected to compete, the lack of his chief rival removes one of the sport’s most compelling narratives from the season finale.
Focus Shifts to Recovery and Road Season
With cyclo-cross now off the calendar, van Aert’s focus will turn to recovery and preparation for the road season, where he plays a crucial role for his team in the Spring Classics and Grand Tours. Full recovery will be essential to avoid complications later in the year.
Team officials have indicated that the priority is long-term health rather than rushing a return to racing.
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