Heartbreak on the Tour: Mathieu van der Poel Withdraws with Pneumonia, Alpecin-Deceuninck Confirms
In a stunning and deeply disappointing turn of events, Mathieu van der Poel will not be continuing in the 2025 edition of the Tour de France, as his team Alpecin-Deceuninck announced late Monday evening. Following medical examinations, the 29-year-old cycling superstar was diagnosed with pneumonia, prompting his immediate withdrawal from the race and an urgent focus on rest and recovery.
The news has sent shockwaves through the cycling community, as van der Poel was widely regarded as a key contender and one of the most dynamic riders in the peloton — known for his explosive attacks, fearless descents, and all-out racing style that has thrilled fans across the globe.
“Wishing you a full and speedy recovery, Mathieu ❤️,” the team wrote in a heartfelt statement posted across its social media channels. “After further examinations on Monday evening, it was confirmed that he is suffering from pneumonia. As a result, Mathieu will not continue the Tour de France and will take the necessary time to rest and recover.”
Signs of Trouble
Though van der Poel had shown flashes of brilliance in the opening stages of the Tour, fans and commentators had noticed something was off. His usual explosive form seemed muted, and he appeared visibly fatigued in recent days, especially on the high mountain stages where he struggled to keep pace.
Initially thought to be a minor illness or fatigue from a packed race calendar, van der Poel underwent comprehensive medical tests after Stage 15, when his symptoms worsened. The team’s medical staff confirmed pneumonia — a serious respiratory infection that makes breathing difficult and significantly compromises endurance and performance.
For a cyclist of van der Poel’s caliber, attempting to push through pneumonia in one of the world’s most demanding sporting events was not an option.
A Devastating Blow to the Tour
Mathieu van der Poel’s early exit is a crushing blow to this year’s Tour de France, which has already endured a string of illnesses and crashes thinning out top talent. His presence in the race brought not only world-class ability but unmatched charisma, unpredictability, and drama.
Whether launching long-range attacks, animatedly gesturing to teammates, or leading charge on grueling climbs, van der Poel represents everything that modern cycling has come to admire — grit, flair, and raw competitiveness. His withdrawal removes one of the race’s most compelling characters, and fans worldwide have expressed heartbreak and support in equal measure.
Reaction from the Cycling World
Messages of support and well-wishes have flooded in from fellow riders, teams, and fans across social media.
“Really tough news about Mathieu. Health always comes first. Wishing you strength and a quick recovery, mate,” tweeted British cyclist Tom Pidcock, who has often raced alongside van der Poel in both road and cyclocross disciplines.
Even rivals like Tadej Pogačar and Wout van Aert — with whom van der Poel has shared some of cycling’s most iconic battles — sent supportive messages, showing the deep respect that exists for the Dutch rider regardless of team colors.
Cycling commentators also noted the void van der Poel’s absence leaves in the race’s dynamics. “When van der Poel is in the peloton, there’s always a sense that something can happen,” said Eurosport’s Robbie McEwen. “He animates races. He doesn’t wait. He attacks, and fans love him for that.”
Alpecin-Deceuninck’s New Strategy
With their talisman now out of the race, Alpecin-Deceuninck will need to recalibrate their Tour de France ambitions. Van der Poel was a cornerstone of their strategy — not only as a stage-hunter but as a lead-out man for sprinter Jasper Philipsen, with whom he’s forged a winning partnership over recent years.
Philipsen, who has already secured a stage victory at this Tour, will now face the remaining sprints without his most trusted lieutenant. Nonetheless, the team remains focused and unified in their goal to finish the Tour strong and support van der Poel in his recovery.
Looking Ahead: Health Comes First
This is not the first time Mathieu van der Poel has been forced to withdraw from a major race due to health concerns. His career, though glittering with victories in classics, cyclocross, and stage races, has also included difficult battles with injuries and illness.
But one thing has never changed: his resilience.
Sources close to the team say van der Poel will spend the coming weeks focusing on full recovery, ruling out any near-term appearances in summer races. With proper treatment and rest, pneumonia is fully recoverable, and the hope is that he’ll return to full strength in time for late-season classics or even the World Championships, should his condition allow.
Fans and the cycling community will certainly be watching, waiting, and hoping for his return.
A Message to the Fans
In a brief personal statement, van der Poel expressed his disappointment and gratitude:
“I’m heartbroken to leave the Tour like this. I gave everything I had, but my body wasn’t right. I want to thank my teammates, staff, and especially the fans for the support every single day. I’ll focus now on getting healthy and coming back stronger.”
A Fighter, a Showman, and a Fan Favorite
Mathieu van der Poel’s Tour de France exit due to pneumonia is more than a medical footnote — it’s a reminder of the fragility of athletic greatness, and the sheer humanity behind the heroic performances fans witness on screen.
Though he leaves the 2025 Tour far earlier than expected, one thing remains certain: van der Poel will be back — fiery, fearless, and fighting for more.
For now, the cycling world collectively pauses and offers him what he deserves most: rest, recovery, and a hopeful road ahead.
Get well soon, Mathieu. ❤️
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