“We don't need to overplay this” – Alpecin-Deceuninck ready to fight on without Mathieu van der Poel

Mathieu van der Poel's Tour de France has come to a sudden and disappointing end. Ahead of Stage 16, Alpecin-Deceuninck confirmed that the Dutch star has abandoned the race due to pneumonia. Van der Poel had been one of the standout riders of the 2025 Tour, winning a stage, donning the yellow jersey multiple times, and animating several others. What was initially brushed off as a minor cold turned serious after the second rest day.

"Mathieu did the coffee ride and then got sicker," team manager Philip Roodhooft told Sporza. "It got worse, and it was clear there was something else going on. Mathieu also had a fever."

His departure is a huge blow for Alpecin-Deceuninck, already down a key rider after Jasper Philipsen exited early in the race, also after a stage win and wearing yello. With both stars gone, the final week will be a tough one for the team to navigate.

"Then there's only one option, yes," Roodhooft said of the decision to withdraw. "It's obviously unfortunate for us, but many riders are sick. We don't need to overplay this. We're not in a position to complain as if all the misery has landed on us. I didn't see Mathieu this morning. Of course, he's not happy about it, but if it's that obvious, then there's no doubt about what needs to be done."

As for what's next, it appears Van der Poel may shift his focus to the mountain bike world championships, with his road season now in question.