Wout van Aert Withdraws from Giro d'Italia Due to Injury, Targets Paris Olympics Return

Wout van Aert won’t participate in this year’s Giro d’Italia as he’s still recovering from injuries suffered in a crash last month. He broke his collarbone and several ribs during the Dwars door Vlaanderen race in Belgium. Originally set to debut in the Giro, he now aims to return for the Paris Olympics.

Van Aert cited his ribs as a hindrance to effective training leading him to withdraw from recent races including the Tour of Flanders and Paris-Roubaix classics as well as the upcoming Amstel Gold Race. Despite disappointment, he prioritizes his health and healing.

With the Giro starting on May 4th, van Aert won’t be competing. He’s a strong contender for Olympic gold in the individual time trial and road race. Christophe Laporte will replace him in Visma’s Giro team.