Fenix-Deceuninck has confirmed that Ceylin del Carmen Alvarado will miss the opening race of the Belgian cyclo-cross season in Meulebeke due to ongoing knee problems. The former world champion had been expected to begin her winter campaign this weekend, but her team announced on Friday that she is still recovering and will delay her return to competition.
“Saturday marks the start of the Belgian cyclo-cross season in Meulebeke,” the team said. “Unfortunately, that will be without Ceylin del Carmen Alvarado. She is still recovering from persistent knee issues, which means she will have to postpone the beginning of her season. We wish her a speedy recovery.”
Photo Credit: Cor VosRecovery and uncertain return
The timing of Alvarado’s comeback remains unclear. The 27-year-old Dutch rider completed an extensive road programme earlier this year, including appearances at the Vuelta España Femenina and the Tour de Suisse, but her build-up to the cyclo-cross campaign has been disrupted by the injury.
Her absence from the Meulebeke opener delays what was expected to be an early test of form against the leading contenders for the winter series titles.
A decorated cyclo-cross career
Alvarado’s record in cyclo-cross places her among the most accomplished riders of her generation. She captured the world, European, and Dutch national titles in 2020, and has since added major series victories including the World Cup in 2023–24, along with three Superprestige titles and the overall Trophy crown in 2019–20. Across her career she has taken seven individual World Cup race wins.
Looking ahead
While her injury setback halts her immediate plans, Alvarado’s achievements and experience suggest she will remain a key figure once she returns to racing. The team has not set a specific target for her comeback, preferring to prioritise full recovery before resuming competition.
Her return date will depend on how her knee responds in the coming weeks, but Fenix-Deceuninck is expected to provide further updates as the early-season races unfold.
