Iserbyt skipped recon session ahead of Belgian Cyclo-cross Championships: "Became ill after Dendermonde"

There was one important absentee during the recon of the Belgian Championship course by Pauwels Sauzen-Bingoal. Defending champion Eli Iserbyt was missing from the preview of the course in Zolder. This was unexpected, as he would normally be present as the outgoing Belgian champion. The reason for his absence has now been clarified: Iserbyt is unwell.

According to team manager Jurgen Mettepenningen, Iserbyt has been dealing with health issues since the race in Dendermonde. "Eli is not here today because he became a bit ill after Dendermonde. He was already feeling off during that race," Mettepenningen told VTM NIEUWS. "On Monday, he woke up with stomach flu and took two days off to rest. Today was his first time training again, and we’re receiving positive signals. His participation on Sunday is certainly not in jeopardy," Mettepenningen assured.

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Iserbyt finished on the podium last weekend

Iserbyt has been having health problems all season

While being ill doesn’t rule out his participation, it’s far from ideal in terms of his preparation. The small cyclo-cross rider has been struggling with health problems for some time now. In late December, it was revealed that Iserbyt has been suffering from piriformis syndrome for two years. This nerve pain in his leg is something he feels daily, and so far, no solution has been found.

Despite Iserbyt’s absence, teammate Michael Vanthourenhout was present during the recon and noted a change in the course layout. An additional steep climb has been added near the end of the lap.

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