Mathieu van der Poel, one of cycling’s biggest stars and reigning world champion, has been forced to step away from competition after being diagnosed with pneumonia, his team Alpecin-Deceuninck confirmed in a statement that left fans around the world deeply concerned. The announcement came after days of speculation about Van der Poel’s health, as the Dutch rider had reportedly been feeling unwell during training sessions earlier in the week.
According to the team’s medical staff, Van der Poel began showing symptoms of a common cold several days ago, which quickly worsened despite rest and treatment. By the evening, his condition had deteriorated to the point where he was taken to the *Centre Hospitalier de Narbonne* for further evaluation. Medical examinations revealed that he was suffering from pneumonia, prompting an immediate decision to remove him from all upcoming races and prioritize his full recovery.
“Mathieu’s health is always our top priority,” read the official team statement. “After thorough consultation with the medical team, it was decided that he must take a complete break from training and racing. He will rest for at least a week and undergo further examinations before any decision about his return to competition is made.”
The news has come as a shock to fans and the cycling community, as Van der Poel has been in outstanding form this season, competing across multiple disciplines and demonstrating his trademark power and versatility. His sudden illness not only halts his racing schedule but also raises questions about how long it will take for the 29-year-old to regain full strength.
Close sources describe Van der Poel as being in good spirits despite the setback, focusing now on recovery under medical supervision. Friends and teammates have rallied around him, with several riders from Alpecin-Deceuninck sharing supportive messages on social media. “He’s a fighter, and we know he’ll come back stronger than ever,” one teammate wrote.
Fans have also flooded social media platforms with get-well messages, many recalling Van der Poel’s history of resilience and comebacks. Over the years, he has faced numerous physical challenges yet consistently returned to the top of the sport — a testament to his determination and love for cycling.
For now, Van der Poel’s team has confirmed that he will not participate in any events until doctors clear him to resume full activity. With key races later in the year still ahead, including potential late-season classics, the focus is on ensuring his complete recovery rather than rushing a return.
As one of the sport’s most electrifying talents and a fan favorite, Mathieu van der Poel’s absence will undoubtedly be felt across the cycling world. But as supporters often remind each other — champions aren’t defined by their setbacks, but by how they rise from them. And for Van der Poel, this is just another hill to climb on the road back to greatness.
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