Drama for Wout van Aert in Vuelta: leader in points and mountain classification has to give up after heavy fall

What a sad end to the Vuelta for Wout van Aert. The leader in the points and mountain classification fell heavily in a descent of the 16th stage. Our compatriot tried to continue his way, but soon had to throw in the towel. Visibly devastated, Van Aert got into the team car.

It all looked so good for Wout van Aert. At the beginning of this cursed 16th stage he had fallen, but Van Aert came out of that crash relatively unscathed and even fought his way into the leading group.

There he confirmed the images of the past few days: an eager Van Aert rode uphill whistling to the mountain points.

But on a wet descent, disaster struck. Once again. Felix Engelhardt, Van Aert’s predecessor, misjudged a slippery bend and rode into the scenery.

Van Aert could not avoid the slide of his predecessor and was a sitting duck. He also fell and the damage and impact now looked much greater.

Our compatriot got back on his bike, but quickly realized that something was wrong. He got off and stopped at his follow-up car. Only then did it become clear how badly Van Aert’s knee was damaged.

The fairy tale thus ends in a nightmare. Tastemaker Van Aert even indicated to his team leader that he was about to faint (“I feel myself spinning”) while he was waiting for the medical services.

Team manager Grischa Niermann gave a short update after the finish: “Wout was taken to hospital by ambulance and will be examined there.”

“We are of course sad that his Vuelta has come to an end in this way. We have not had much luck this season. We all sympathise with Wout.”

“What a shame. Guys,” our commentators responded to the images of a grimacing and head-shaking Wout van Aert. “What a downer.”

“Gone is the green. Gone are the spheres. Gone are stage wins and a 50th victory. There are still question marks.”

“And what about the European Championship and the World Cup? These are premature conclusions, but it is the reality.”

“I would almost dare to swear, but I’m not going to do it,” said José De Cauwer, summarizing the feelings of many cycling enthusiasts.

“It’s a shame anyway, but it’s also a shame that his physical condition is gone. He was back and he said he could have done even better.”