Fem van Empel has been forced to withdraw from this weekend’s World Cup races in Hulst and Zonhoven due to a knee injury sustained during a training ride. The 22-year-old world champion, who has been one of the standout riders this cyclocross season, will miss the events after experiencing discomfort following the crash earlier this week.
“Fem van Empel fell during a recon ride this week and hit her knee,” her team, Visma-Lease a Bike, confirmed. “She’s experiencing discomfort and, unfortunately, will not be able to start in the World Cups in Hulst and Zonhoven this weekend. Wishing you a speedy recovery, Fem!”
The Dutch rider’s absence follows a challenging race in Namur last weekend, where multiple crashes saw her finish in an uncharacteristic seventh place. Despite her impressive record this season—six victories in 11 races—Van Empel has recently been struggling with form, and this injury adds to her frustrations.
Main photo credit: Cor Vos
