"We hope this does not mean the end of the season, but I think so" - Disaster for Gerben Kuypers following World Cup Namur crash

Gerben Kuypers suffered a significant setback during Sunday’s World Cup Namur, leaving his winter season in jeopardy. The 24-year-old endured a crash, in a race won by Michael Vanthourenhout, that has cast doubt over his ability to compete again this season, with fears that his campaign may already be over.

Kuypers, who represents Intermarché - Wanty on the road and Charles Liegeois Roastery CX during the winter, underwent surgery for a collarbone injury sustained in the crash. Speaking to Wielerflits, team manager Bart Wellens expressed concern about Kuypers' recovery timeline.

"Bad news. We hope this does not mean the end of the season, but I think so," said Wellens. "We'll have to wait and see what the doctors have to say. The planning was normal until the World Championships and then start the road campaign. And there are still seven weeks until the World Championships."

The injury comes at a pivotal moment in Kuypers' cyclocross season, where he was building form ahead of the highly anticipated World Championships. The 24-year-old now faces a race against time to recover and return to racing, though Wellens' comments indicate the challenge will be significant.

For Kuypers, this setback interrupts his winter, and the next few weeks will determine whether he can recover in time to salvage his season. If not, attention will inevitably shift to ensuring he is fully fit for his road campaign with Intermarché - Wanty in 2025.