Laporte makes comeback in ADAC Cyclassics Hamburg, Van Aert replaces Kooij due to sickness

# Laporte Triumphantly Returns to Racing at ADAC Cyclassics Hamburg as Van Aert Steps Up

In a thrilling turn of events at the ADAC Cyclassics Hamburg, Christophe Laporte makes his much-anticipated comeback after a lengthy hiatus, while Team Visma | Lease a Bike welcomes Wout Van Aert as a late replacement for the unwell Olav Kooij.

Head of Racing Grischa Niermann confirmed Kooij’s sickness, stating, “After a strong Tour de Pologne, Olav began experiencing symptoms of illness this week. He turned out unfit to start. With Wout, we have a fantastic replacement ready. He is very motivated to make the most of the final part of his season.” Van Aert is stepping in just days before the race, adjusting his training plan to participate in this WorldTour event, which often turns into a showdown between sprinters and strong classics riders. “I was immediately on board when the idea came up earlier this week,” the Belgian classics specialist remarked. “From my only participation in 2022, I know the course suits me well.”

### A Hopeful Return for Laporte

Laporte, who previously played a crucial role in guiding Kooij to victory last year, expressed his eagerness to support Van Aert. “Hopefully we can aim high again this year with Wout. I hope I’m strong enough to help him and the team. Without rhythm, it’s hard to predict, of course. The most important thing for me is simply being back on the bike and no longer following the team only on television,” he shared.

His absence from competitive racing has been long, having last raced in October of last year, where he secured a stunning victory at Paris-Tours. Laporte faced a challenging winter after being diagnosed with cytomegalovirus, keeping him off the bike for months. “It was the toughest period of my cycling career. I had never experienced anything like it before,” he reflected.

With this summer behind him filled with productive training, Laporte is eager to don a race number once more. “Building up my condition wasn’t easy after such a long break. In recent weeks, I have spent time with my teammates in Tignes. It felt fantastic to be part of the group again. I really missed that feeling,” he noted.

### Gaining Momentum

Having watched the concluding stages of the Tour de France from home, Laporte could barely contain his excitement. “I was on the edge of my seat the whole time. Seeing Wout ride solo onto the Champs-Élysées was truly magnificent – great for him and the whole team. At the same time, it was frustrating at moments to watch races I would normally be competing in,” he explained.

Niermann is equally delighted with Laporte’s return, viewing it as a substantial boost for both the athlete and the team. “His current level is difficult to assess, because Christophe is missing rhythm… It will take time, and we’ll build him up steadily without rushing,” Niermann added.

With Laporte’s immediate focus on regaining his racing rhythm and aspirations to compete in more races before the season wraps up, he concluded, “My big goal is to win races again. I want to experience that feeling again. First, I need to get back into top form. Once that happens, the good results will follow naturally.”

As Team Visma | Lease a Bike lines up with a formidable seven-man squad for Sunday’s race, including Niklas Behrens, Attila Valter, Loe van Belle, Menno Huising, and Edoardo Affini, the excitement is palpable for what promises to be an exhilarating competition.