Wout van Aert a doubt for Visma’s Tour de France training camp amid ‘mystery’ wound inflammation

Wout van Aert’s participation in Visma-Lease a Bike’s final Tour de France training camp is uncertain due to complications from an elbow injury sustained in a training crash. The Belgian rider withdrew from the Tour Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes the day after winning stage five, citing discomfort from the injury. Since then, reports have varied regarding the severity of the wound, with some Belgian media suggesting an infection while others describe it as an inflammation or aggravation that required hospital treatment. The cause of the wound’s sudden swelling remains unclear, with team director Maarten Wynants calling it "a mystery." However, a plausible explanation has emerged pointing to the stage 3 team time trial, where the prolonged pressure from resting on the time trial extensions may have worsened the injury. Van Aert underwent an ultrasound scan and treatment in Herentals after returning to Belgium, but the exact nature and recovery timeline of the inflammation remain uncertain. Van Aert’s fitness and readiness for the Tour de France are now in question, as he may miss the altitude training camp in Tignes scheduled to start on Monday. Team leader Jonas Vingegaard and other key riders are expected to attend, some arriving directly from the Tour Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes. Sporza reports that Van Aert might delay his departure, reflecting concerns about his condition and the impact on his preparation. Despite a strong stage five victory, Van Aert’s form had already been under scrutiny due to struggles in the early days of the race, linked to injuries sustained during training. Wynants expressed mixed feelings about the situation, acknowledging the positive boost from the win but also the challenges posed by the injury. The team plans to monitor the elbow’s recovery closely before deciding on the next steps for Van Aert’s Tour de France campaign.