Incredible Recovery! Two Weeks Post-Fracture, Wout Van Aert Logs Six-Hour Training Ride
Wout Van Aert, the Belgian cycling star, has defied expectations with his remarkable recovery from a fractured ankle. Just two weeks after the injury, he's already back on the bike, logging a six-hour training ride in Spain. This is a testament to his resilience and determination, as he aims to make a strong comeback in the classics season.
Van Aert's injury occurred during the Zilvermeercross in Mol on January 2, 2026, while he was pushing Mathieu van der Poel. He was diagnosed with a fracture later that day and underwent a successful operation to stabilize the injury on January 3. Sports doctor Tom Teulingkx initially predicted a longer recovery period, but Van Aert's swift return has surprised everyone.
On Monday, just nine days after his surgery, Van Aert shared a Strava activity titled 'Gewonnen maandag' (Won Monday), showcasing his determination. He averaged an impressive 32.3km/h for 33.39 kilometers. The post-surgery photos revealed significant bruising and swelling around his ankle, with a visible screw in his joint.
Since then, Van Aert has been pushing harder. On Tuesday, he rode over 59.21km near Benidorm, Spain. The following day, he covered 108km, and on Thursday, he joined his Visma-Lease a Bike teammates for a challenging 144.3km ride, gaining almost 3000 meters of elevation. This rigorous training session tested his ankle's recovery.
Friday brought another challenging day, with Van Aert completing a six-hour spin, covering 184km and accumulating 3,296 vertical meters. The next day, he took it easy with a 31km ride but is expected to increase his training intensity soon.
Van Aert's rapid return has left many in awe, including Teulingkx, who initially predicted a longer recovery. Despite his optimistic outlook, Teulingkx acknowledges that nature will take its course. Van Aert's determination and progress suggest he's on track for a successful spring campaign, aiming to compete in races like Omloop Het Nieuwsblad and the iconic Paris-Roubaix.
'I want to seize every opportunity that comes my way,' Van Aert stated, reflecting his ambitious spirit. With his current performance, Van Aert is poised for a remarkable spring season, potentially securing his first career wins in the Tour of Flanders and Paris-Roubaix.
