First up, some fantastic news about Jay Vine. After a serious crash in March that resulted in a cervical vertebra fracture, Jay Vine has been granted medical clearance to remove his neck brace and start light training. This is a significant milestone in his recovery.
Next, Lorena Wiebes has been confirmed as the team leader for the Dutch women's team for the 2024 Olympics. This powerhouse team also includes Tour de France winner Demi Vollering, Olympic gold medallist Marianne Vos, and three-time time trial world champion Ellen van Dijk. The team is gearing up for the elite women's race on August 4.
In a heartfelt tribute, the 2024 Tour de Suisse will honour the late Gino Mäder, who tragically passed away during the 2023 edition of the race. Several meaningful initiatives have been planned, including a special mountain prize named the Gino Mäder Prize, awarded to the best climber of the race. Additionally, a commemorative ride will invite fans, cyclists, and the broader cycling community to celebrate Mäder's life and career. His race number 44 has been permanently retired from the event.
Colombian cyclist Miguel Engel Lopez has been handed a four-year doping ban by the UCI for the use and possession of a prohibited substance during the 2022 Giro D'Italia. The ban is effective until July 2027. Lopez intends to challenge the ban.
Lastly, don't forget that the Criterium du Dauphiné is starting this weekend. Known as one of the best preparations for the Tour de France, the race will be broadcast on SBS every evening. We'll also have a full debrief for the first few days of the race on Wednesday in the SBS cycling podcast.
