Jonas Vingegaard's Resilient Return to the Tour de France

Two-time Tour de France champion Jonas Vingegaard is set to defend his title after recovering from a severe crash in April. Despite doubts about his competitiveness, Vingegaard, supported by teammate Wout van Aert, will be racing in Italy. The race begins on June 29 in Florence.

Two-time Tour de France champion Jonas Vingegaard has made a remarkable recovery and is set to defend his title next week, despite serious injuries from an April crash. Vingegaard, who was hospitalized with a broken collarbone, ribs, and a collapsed lung, will start the race in Florence along with his Visma-Lease a Bike team, as confirmed on Thursday.

His right-hand man, Wout van Aert, who also suffered a crash-induced injury in March, will be riding in support. 'The last few months have not always been easy,' Vingegaard said. 'We have worked together to get to this moment, and I am very excited to see where I stand. I feel good and very motivated.'

Sporting director Merijn Zeeman praised Vingegaard’s mental and physical resilience, acknowledging the challenges of his recovery. The team remains cautiously optimistic about his performance, given the less-than-ideal preparation period. 'He will be there, healthy and motivated,' said Zeeman.