The Belgian selection for the World Championships has made headlines in Belgium. Tom Meeusen won’t be at the start in Tabor as his name has been mentioned in the investigation of a Belgian doctor who is accused of having used ozone therapy to treat athletes. According to the UCI regulations, Meeusen is prohibited from starting the race. His teammate Bart Wellens has also missed out on selection, just like talented Laurens Sweeck.

Six riders seemed to be guaranteed a spot on the Belgian roster for the Worlds: Nys, Wout van Aert, Kevin Pauwels, Klaas Vantornout, Rob Peeters and Tom Meeusen.

But to everyone's surprise, the latter has to skip the Worlds. As he may have used the controversial and banned therapy, UCI doesn’t allow him to ride in the Czech Republic.

Bart Wellens, who was not sure of his place, and Laurens Sweeck, one of the favorites for the U23 race, were also mentioned in a doping investigation although it is not clear whether it is related to the Meeusen coach.

Thus, the selection suddenly became a lot easier for coach Rudy De Bie. Sunweb Napoleon Games is the main supplier for  the national team as Tim Merlier and Gianni Vermeersch will join leaders Vantornout and Pauwels.

Belgian for the World Championships:

Wout van Aert
Klaas Vantornout
Tim Merlier
Gianni Vermeersch
Rob Peeters
Kevin Pauwels
Sven Nys