World champion Mathieu Van der Pol (Alpecin-Desseuninck) abandoned Renuit Tour before Sunday's final stage due to knee pain and concerns about the impact on the rest of the 2024 season.

Van der Pol hit his knee on the handlebars during the stage 2 time trial. He was able to continue racing until Friday, but the pain did not subside.

“Considering the rest of his program, we decided not to take any risks,” said Alpecin Deceuninck.

“The last stage would have been extra stressful for his knee,” van der Pol said.

“So I can't and won't take the risk of the injury getting worse. It's a shame because I was really looking forward to the final stage in Mühl in Geraardsbergen.”

Arnaud De Lier (Lotto-Doustony) won the final stage in Lenuitur from a group that was split up on the final circuit climb. The overall winner was Tim Wellens (UAE Team Emirates).

Van der Pol will wear the number at the European Championships in Belgium on September 15. [...] [...] [...] [...] [...] [...]