"His morale is below zero now" - But Visma are not panicking about Cian Uijtdebroeks fitness

The start of 2025 has been anything but smooth for Cian Uijtdebroeks. The 22-year-old Belgian endured another difficult day at Tirreno-Adriatico, getting dropped on the final climb of the final stage. His disappointment was palpable, with the resurfacing of his back issues delivering a massive blow to his confidence, but his team is standing by him.

Visibly frustrated after the stage, Uijtdebroeks was left close to tears. His struggles have left Team Visma | Lease a Bike searching for answers, with team manager Maarten Wynants acknowledging the emotional toll the situation is taking.

"His morale is below zero now, that's normal," Wynants told Sporza. "Today it didn't work out again, so it's far from all sweetness and light."

The return of his back problems has only added to the frustration, with no clear solution yet in sight. "He's having back problems again, but for the rest, it's hard to put your finger on the problem. First, we have to wash away this disappointment and then look further."

Despite the current struggles, team boss Richard Plugge remains optimistic about the long-term picture. Speaking from Paris-Nice, the Visma | Lease a Bike CEO urged patience with Uijtdebroeks' development.

"I'm not really worried," Plugge stated. "Cian is a very young boy. We have to slowly build on his form and the way he races."

While the results may not be there at the moment, Plugge believes Uijtdebroeks can still take positives from his performances. "He rode a really good climb yesterday, as crazy as that may sound. He can also reflect on the successes he has achieved."

Visma | Lease a Bike remains committed to Uijtdebroeks’ long-term development, confident that he will eventually reach the level expected of him.

"Cian still has to grow, and that takes time," Plugge added. "We are known for making riders better, and with him too, we will grow step by step to a higher level. He needs the time that everyone needs at that age."