54-Time Grandtour Stage Winner Mark Cavendish Discontinues UAE Participation After Sudden Illness

Star cyclist Mark Cavendish, renowned for his powerful sprints, unfortunately had to withdraw from the second-to-last stage of the UAE Tour because of an illness. The team management made the decision at the very last minute, after considering his condition.

His team, Astana-Qazaqstan, released a statement explaining that Cavendish reported a fever on Saturday morning, leading to the tough decision to pull out of the race. Sports directors and medical personnel agreed that his health and recovery should take precedence, allowing him to focus on upcoming competitions.

UAE Tour ends abruptly for Mark Cavendish

Cavendish’s race schedule for the upcoming months is packed with exciting events, including the prestigious Tirreno-Adriatico race and appearances at Milano-Torino, Brugge-De Panne, and Scheldeprijs in the spring.

Unfortunately for him, his already below par UAE Tour ended even worse. He made his way to the racetrack, ready in the kit for the last chance to sprint. However, all plans went down the drain when he could not line up for the penultimate race day. His plans of training and honing his sprinting skills before the all important tour in July took a minor hit.

In preparation for the Tour de France, Mark Cavendish will take part in the Tour of Hungary and possibly the Tour de Suisse. His preparation goes beyond races, with planned training camps in Greece and Sierra Nevada to optimize his performance.

After a devastating crash during the Tour de France last year, Cavendish initially announced his retirement from cycling but later retracted his decision and signed with Astana for another season. Mark Cavendish has strengthened his lead-out unit by bringing in Michael Mørkøv and reuniting him with coach Vasilis Anastopoulos.

All eyes on the big prize: Tour de France

This recent setback introduces an element of uncertainty to Mark Cavendish’s progress towards the Tour de France. However, the resilient cyclist is accustomed to overcoming challenges throughout his illustrious career. As he recuperates and regains his form, Cavendish maintains his resolve to make a significant impact in the upcoming races.

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Anastopoulos, Astana manager, noticed Cavendish’s apparent relief from the stress of competing for a good position in the Tour de France. Cavendish followed a specific plan since September to prepare for the Tour de France. He is determined to fulfill his dream of another fairytale Tour de France and leave with a bang!

Cavendish’s journey began in Colombia, where he underwent altitude training and participated in the Tour Colombia. He bagged a Stage 4 win in Zipaquirá, to add to his already envious tally.

The cyclist will now recuperate and return to sporting action with the Tirreno-Adriatico, starting on March 4th.