Belgian cyclist Nathan Van Hooydonck, riding for Jumbo-Visma, was admitted to hospital on Tuesday after a day that began with him feeling unwell behind the wheel. The incident occurred while he was driving, leading to a traffic accident that left him not feeling right and prompted medical evaluation on-site and then further care at a medical facility. The team confirmed that he is currently under treatment there while doctors run investigations and monitor his condition.
In an official statement, Jumbo-Visma described the sequence of events: Van Hooydonck started the day under the weather, his condition worsening while driving, which resulted in a crash. He was promptly taken to a hospital where clinicians began a routine series of checks and tests to assess his condition. The team emphasized that he is receiving proper medical care and is under professional supervision as specialists determine the next steps in his treatment.
Public updates from the team clarified that the driver’s health status remains uncertain in the immediate aftermath of the accident. While some rumors circulated about the severity of his condition, the official communication stated that it could not confirm those rumors and that Nathan is undergoing new medical tests. The emphasis was on careful diagnosis and ongoing monitoring, with gratitude extended to all supporters who reached out to Nathan and Jumbo-Visma during this challenging time.
Jumbo-Visma’s social media channel, X, reflected a cautious tone, reiterating that no conclusive information could be shared about the seriousness of his condition. The post thanked well-wishers for their messages and noted that Nathan was undergoing additional medical testing. The team’s objective was to ensure transparent communication while safeguarding the privacy of their rider as clinicians pursue a clear understanding of the issue.
The 27-year-old rider, who has been enjoying a break from a demanding season in Belgium, is currently in a recovery phase away from competitive racing. The incident unfolded while he was in the Belgian town of Kalmthout, a region often used by riders for rest periods and light training camps. In the broader context of his career, Van Hooydonck is known as a dependable teammate and a trusted support rider during Grand Tours. His teammate and close partner, Jonas Vingegaard, has been cited as a prominent figure within the squad during the Tour de France era, underscoring the close-knit nature of the team and its leadership group. The episode underscores how elite cyclists balance their demanding schedules with health concerns and the importance of medical oversight when any incident raises questions about safety and well-being. The team remains focused on Nathan’s well-being and is coordinating closely with medical staff as updates become available, while fans and the cycling community await further information about his recovery progress.