Big setback for Visma | LAB: Kooij's season ends early due to stone in knee

Olav Kooij’s season is over. The Visma | Lease a Bike sprinter is struggling with knee issues and has called it quits for 2024, as his Dutch team announced on X.

" Olav Kooij will not compete for the remainder of the season," Visma | LAB posted on social media. "The 22-year-old sprinter had been experiencing knee issues in recent days. Medical examinations revealed the presence of a small stone in his knee. This was likely the result of an earlier crash, and it now requires surgical removal. Following the procedure, he will need a short period of rest before beginning his recovery process. Given the timing, it has been decided that his season is over."

In 2024, the young Dutch sprinter had a year of ups and downs. In total, he was able to raise his arms in victory eight times, with a win in the Giro d’Italia as the standout highlight. However, his grand tour debut didn’t go as planned. His victory in Naples was also his last achievement in Italy. With wins in Paris-Nice, the Tour of Poland, and the prestigious sprint classic BEMER Cyclassics, Kooij proved he belongs among the fastest guys at the highest level.

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Kooij narrowly missed out on European gold medal, defeated by Merlier

There was a moment when it seemed Kooij might be heading to the Tour de France, but that plan didn’t materialize. In mid-September, he faced a major setback. Kooij was beaten by Tim Merlier at the European Championships, settling for silver. The Dutchman wasn’t well-positioned in the race, and the cooperation within the Dutch team faced criticism. After the European Championships, Kooij raced one more time in the Dutch race Gooikse Pijl, where he was again beaten by the newly crowned European champion. Now, his focus shifts to next season, and who knows what that has in store for the young rider.

The calendar for the new cyclo-cross season is now online! Check it out here. Or check out our general calendars for the remainder of the season for the men and women's races.