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Maxim Van Gils is sidelined from the Ardennes Classics as he recovers from a fractured pelvis and shoulder sustained during a crash at the Clásica Jaén in February. This absence marks a significant loss for Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe, as Van Gils was a standout performer in the spring classics of the previous season.
Despite his current situation, Van Gils shares positive news about his recovery. He began cycling outdoors at the end of March, although he admits he is still catching up after a five-week break from the bike. “If I train for longer than four hours now, I’m completely exhausted,” he reveals. However, he notes that his pelvis feels much better, with only lingering shoulder pain during long rides.
The crash, which occurred in the final sprint for second place, involved Jan Christen, who was later disqualified and promptly apologized for the incident. Van Gils faced a challenging recovery, spending two weeks in a wheelchair and having to relearn how to walk.
As he continues to heal, Van Gils reflects on the emotional toll and the difficulty of watching key races from home, knowing he could have been a contender in these pivotal competitions.
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