Dutch cycling legend Marianne Vos has taken to Instagram to announce her return to cycling following a surgical procedure on her groin artery at the end of August. The Jumbo-Visma rider disclosed her contentment with the progress she has made during her recovery, noting that cyclocross events are off her calendar this year.
“It’s been five weeks since the surgery, and I’m back on the bike. I’m pleased with the progress I’ve made,” stated Vos, who has been undergoing a regulated recovery regime. “During the first five weeks, I was not allowed to engage in any physical activities. Starting this week, I’ve been permitted to go for an hour’s ride every other day, and I’ll be able to gradually increase the duration and intensity over the coming weeks. By week eight, I’ll be able to train for two hours daily.”
At 36, Vos, who is under contract with Jumbo-Visma (who’ve undergone plenty of changes recently) until the end of 2025, is keen to get back to full-fledged training. “I’ve made the best use of my time off the bike, but I’m looking forward to the upcoming period and am excited to train again,” she added.
As for her race schedule, Vos has not yet specified when she will return to competitive cycling but ruled out participating in any cyclocross events this year. “Last week, I discussed my plans for 2024 with my new coach, Rutger Thijssen. The focus will primarily be on building a solid foundation, which means that no cyclocross races are planned,” she confirmed.
Prior to the surgery, Vos had been experiencing persistent pain and a lack of power in her left leg, a condition that worsened over the season. Despite the setback, she managed to secure two stage wins in La Vuelta Femenina and podium finishes in events such as Dwars door Vlaanderen, the Giro d’Italia Donne, and the Tour de France Femmes.
Vos’s return to the saddle, coupled with her decision to skip the cyclocross season, hints at a redefined focus and the inception of a new chapter in her illustrious career. The legendary rider’s future engagements are eagerly awaited by fans and competitors alike, as the cycling world anticipates what the next seasons have in store for her.
