Blow for Vingegaard as key teammate abandons Giro ahead of stage 4

Wilco Kelderman was among the many riders involved in the mass crash on stage 2 with 23km, which forced the stage to be briefly neutralised. The Dutchman was able to remount and finish 174th on the stage, and managed to complete the third and final stage in Bulgaria. 

However, following the race’s first rest day, as the riders travelled to Italy, Kelderman was unable to shake off the impact of the crash, leading to his withdrawal ahead of the fourth stage.

“Unfortunately, Wilco Kelderman will not start stage 4 of the Giro d’Italia following his crash a couple of days ago, as he is still experiencing lingering effects from the crash,” Visma | Lease a Bike confirmed to social media. 

The 2026 Giro marked Kelderman’s 20th Grand Tour of his career, illustrating the 35-year-old’s invaluable experience. 

A former 3rd place finisher back in 2020, Kelderman was expected to be an important lieutenant for Vingegaard in the mountains. However, the Dane now has less firepower in support in his quest to become just the eighth rider to win all three Grand Tours. 

Kelderman’s withdrawal adds another name to the growing list of riders who have abandoned the race, following the crash on stage 2. UAE Team Emirates-XRG were the team most directly impacted by the crash. Marc Soler and Jay Vine were unable to finish the stage, with both riders suffering fractures. Adam Yates finished the stage but was unable to start the following day.

Meanwhile, Santiago Buitrago (Bahrain-Victorious), Andrea Vendrame (Jayco AlUla) and Ådne Holter (Uno-X Mobility) were all forced to abandon as a result of the crash. 

Ahead of stage 4, Vingegaard sits 19th in GC, 0:10 behind stage 2 winner and race leader Guillermo Thomas Silva (XDS Astana).