Nieuwenhuis' return postponed again, Dutch rider not present at World Cup Antwerp

He is the vice-world champion, but Nieuwenhuis has not been able to enjoy it much so far. The skin disease shingles keeps causing issues. After the best season of his career, he hasn't competed in any cyclo-cross races this year. This weekend should have marked his return to the World Cup in Antwerp on Sunday. Nieuwenhuis was announced in the press release listing the riders selected by the KNWU earlier this week, but it wasn't meant to be.

His first performance of the season has been postponed again. Antwerp comes too soon for the 28-year-old Dutch rider. "Joris is making great strides, but he still needs a little more time before returning to competition," his team, Ridley Racing Team, announced in a short message. The newly formed team has not yet had the opportunity to enjoy their leader, either. "After a more intensive training period, it became clear that his body isn't ready yet."

Ridley Racing Team stresses that Nieuwenhuis' recovery process is the highest priority. "We're fully committed to supporting Joris in his recovery and won't rush the process," the team concludes in a press release. It is currently unknown when Nieuwenhuis will be competing again.