An end to the Vuelta suffering: Belgian talent Lennert Van Eetvelt withdraws from the race

Lennert Van Eetvelt has withdrawn from the Vuelta a España, as announced by his team, Lotto-Dstny, on Thursday morning. The Belgian rider had been feeling unwell for several days and has now decided to leave the race in Spain.

The team stated that the issue involves his airways and lungs. As a precaution, they have chosen to bring him back to Belgium for medical tests and to save him from the grueling stages ahead.

Van Eetvelt had a promising start to the Vuelta, showing strong climbing form and nearly winning a stage on day four. The Belgian GC contender, who won the UAE Tour earlier this year, looked set for a top finish but faded in stage nine. After that, his condition worsened, and he struggled in the hilly stages.

More updates to follow soon