Tim Wellens has been forced to pull out of the upcoming Tour de France after sustaining severe injuries in a motor-pacing crash last week. Wellens suffered extensive road rash and deep wounds all over his body, particularly on his right shoulder, elbow, and knee. While no fractures were detected, the recovery time required is insufficient for him to be ready for the high-speed race. Fellow cyclist Frederik Frison will take his place.
“It is hard to describe how disappointed I am. This is one of the worst crashes I’ve ever experienced on the bike,” said Tim Wellens. “I was training behind the scooter when both the motor bike and I were caught off guard by a bump on the road. The scooter managed to avoid the crash, but I couldn’t. I was so taken by surprise that I didn’t have time to brake. The road rash is so severe due to our high speed. With injuries covering large parts of my body, my body temperature is higher, and I cannot sleep well. There’s no way these injuries can heal in less than a week. Furthermore, full recovery during the Tour de France is practically impossible. Each stage of that race is like a world championship.”
Wellens had high hopes for the Tour de France and had set his sights on winning a stage. He mentioned, “Especially the first stages suited me – tough stages in a region that I know so well. I’ve done a recon of the stages to Nice, Sisteron, and Orcières-Merlette numerous times.”
In last year’s Tour de France, Tim Wellens wore the polka-dot jersey for 15 days.
The Lotto Soudal squad for the Tour de France consists of Steff Cras, Jasper De Buyst, Thomas De Gendt, John Degenkolb, Caleb Ewan, Frederik Frison, Philippe Gilbert, and Roger Kluge.
Lotto Soudal leaders Caleb Ewan, Philippe Gilbert, John Degenkolb, and Thomas De Gendt will be available for a press conference on Wednesday, August 26th, at 4 PM. More details will be provided later.
