Toon Aerts leaves Baloise - Trek Lions as doping case remains unresolved

After seven months of battle to defend Toon Aerts, Baloise - Trek Lions have today announced a mutual agreement for separation between the two, as Aerts moves on with uncertainty towards his future in the sport.

"In consultation with Toon and his entourage, we have decided to end the agreement. That has mainly to do with the fact that Toon has no idea of ​​a definitive answer," team manager Sven Nys said in a press conference today. In early February, Aerts tested positive for the substance Letrozole, and although he is not banned from racing, neither he or the team have agreed on competing whilst the Belgian rider is working on his defense.

“We had all hoped that we would get him at the start of the new cyclocross season. We have supported him in this, from day one to the present day," Nys continued, pointing out that he was training normally and had been part of a team training camp recently. It is unknown if Aerts will be joining a new team this winter or remain sidelined in order to work on his case.

"There is, of course, still uncertainty. He should now be able to concentrate mainly on his defense. And hope that answers will come soon," Nys added. The Elite team of Baloise - Trek Lions will now have Lars van der Haar as the main leader as the team loses one of it's main and most important cards.