Stan Dewulf will miss out on spring classics after femoral artery surgery

Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale won't be able to count on Stan Dewulf in the spring. The 26-year-old Belgian underwent surgery on his femoral artery at the end of December and now starts a long rehabilitation period.

Dewulf had been suffering from a narrowed femoral artery for some time and therefore had to undergo surgery. "It all went well, now it's time to let my body heal," the rider said via Instagram. In conversation with Sporza he goes into it even further. "If I didn't have it done now, I would be further away from home. It is simply the best decision and an important one for the rest of my career. The problem had to be solved."

Dewulf is disappointed that he has to pass for his favorite cobbled classics. "Although I have experienced it before in my career," he puts things into perspective. "It also makes me feel a little better. It is also difficult for me to continue cycling with an obstacle. It remains confrontational, but I can make the click to accept it."

The Decathlon AG2R La Mondiale rider hopes to return to the peloton as soon as possible. "I now just have to start the rehabilitation as best as possible - a few more weeks off the bike. That to return as best as possible. I'm already secretly dreaming of the Giro so I can help my team there. This year I want to reach an even higher level than before," he revealed.