A dramatic turn of events in Belgian cycling: Wout van Aert (Visma-Lease a Bike) will not take part in the National Road Championships scheduled for today in Binche. News that has fantasy coaches trembling ahead of the Tour.

The team confirmed that van Aert developed symptoms of illness on Saturday evening and, following a medical assessment this morning, the decision was made not to start him. The team did not provide further details on the nature of the problem.

The Belgian national race, considered among the most prestigious in the panorama of national championships, will take place on a demanding 230 km course. Despite the absence of van Aert, the field remains of the highest level with riders of the caliber of Tim Merlier, Jasper Philipsen and the defending champion Arnaud De Lie.

Van Aert's withdrawal is particularly worrying for the Tour de France, which kicks off next Saturday in Lille. The Belgian, who has not raced since the Giro d'Italia in May, was aiming to support Jonas Vingegaard in his quest for a third consecutive victory, as well as seeking his 10th stage win.