Wout van Aert to miss Strade Bianche as illness delays his road season, will begin campaign at Tirreno-Adriatico

Wout van Aert has revealed he will miss Saturday’s Strade Bianche after “not feeling very well” earlier this month.

The Jumbo-Visma rider will instead start his 2023 road campaign at Tirreno-Adriatico, which runs from March 6-12.

In the Belgian’s absence, Mathieu van der Poel (Alpecin–Deceuninck), Tom Pidcock (Ineos Grenadiers), Pello Bilbao (Bahrain Victorious) and Julian Alaphilippe (Soudal–Quick-Step) will be among the favourites to triumph on the famous white gravel roads of Tuscany.

“Unfortunately, I was not feeling very well for several days last week during the start of my training camp here in Tenerife,” Van Aert said in a video message on social media.

“Fortunately, it wasn’t too bad and I felt better shortly after. However, it affected my training.

“After taking a break following the Cyclo-cross World Championships, I again lost a few training days in preparation for the season.

“We decided it’s better to stay at altitude longer and I can reach my best shape possible for Tirreno-Adriatico. We think it’s not possible to perform at my best in Strade Bianche.”

Van Aert had a busy winter as he went up against Van der Poel and Pidcock in several cyclo-cross races, finishing second to the Dutch rider at the World Championships.

He will likely use Tirreno-Adriatico to get into shape for the Monuments, beginning with Milan–San Remo on March 18, before taking on the Tour of Flanders, Paris-Roubaix and Liege–Bastogne–Liege in April.

“I want to win but that’s not possible right now,” Van Aert continued. “I need a bit more time, but sometimes changing the plans is necessary. That’s how things are.

“For the upcoming Flemish spring Classics I am in good spirits. I’m looking forward to seeing my fans by the roadside again soon.”

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