Even though there is no lack of excitement in the cross season, Niels Albert is still dearly missed. As sports director of the Vastgoedservice-Golden Palace team, he still has his place in the cucling world but after a remarkable statement, a comeback may again be a possibility.

"A comeback? That's for me to know and for you a mystery," Niels Albert told Het Nieuwsblad at the Kristallen Fiets award show.

However, his supporters will have to wait quite a while before they need to get their flags out of the closet. The 28-year-old former world champion indeed realizes that his destiny as an athlete no longer lies in his own hands.

"I try to exercise, but I do not always have time. If they find something that can help me, then a comeback is possible. However, I will not jeopardize my life for the sport that I've done very much."

Niels Albert had to retire from cyclocross in May cyclocross due to heart problems. He is only allowed to do sport at a recreational level and only under certain conditions. Albert was checked by several specialists, including a heart specialist who suggested that a return to the highest level was possible, but since then he has remained silent about a possible comeback.