Star Metro - Van Aert out of Tour de France with elbow injury

"The Belgian is still dealing with the effects of an elbow injury and has not recovered in time to start the Tour de France at the required level," the team said.

Van Aert won the Paris-Roubaix classic in April and would have been a key rider for Visma and Dane Jonas Vingegaard in the July 4-26 Tour de France.

But the rider fell in training ahead of last week's Tour Auvergne-Rhone-Alpes stage race.

"During the race, an infection unexpectedly developed in the wound on his elbow, forcing him to abandon the race," Visma said.

"This week, the wound was cleaned again in hospital, and he also spent one night under observation in hospital."

Van Aert said the decision to withdraw was "of course, a big disappointment".

"The Tour de France is one of my main goals every year. Unfortunately, a crash during training has put a spanner in the works, and the injury to my elbow has worsened and has still not healed sufficiently," he said.

"Together with the team, we have concluded that starting the Tour in top form is not feasible at this point."

Race coach Marc Reef described van Aert as "one of the most important riders in our team".

"In recent days we have explored all options, but ultimately his health comes first... It is unfortunate that he will not be there, but we are convinced this is the right decision for his recovery and the rest of his season."

Visma will announce van Aert's replacement on June 23, when the final Tour de France selection will be presented.

Y.X. Gagnon--SMC