Having dropped out of the Giro d’Italia, foregone the chance to ride the Tour de France, pulled out of the Tour of Poland and then missed the Olympic Games, Thor Hushovd’s annus horribilis continued today when it was revealed that he wouldn't compete again until 2013.
Like Philippe Gilbert, his friend, training partner and fellow high-profile signing to the BMC Racing Team, Hushovd has had zero victories in 2012. However the Belgian has at least been able to race; for Hushovd, the 2010 world champion, the year has seen him more often on the sidelines than on his bike.
One month ago his coach Atle Kvålsvoll told TV2 what the problem was. “After the Giro, he was diagnosed with a viral infection that was holding him back since the beginning of the season. This is mononucleosis or a similar disease…we don’t know exactly when he will be recovered.”
Now Kvålsvoll has confirmed to Fædrelandsvennen that the rider’s season is kaput. “Thor is out of the world championships. He will not take part in any more races this year, that is certain after his stay in the US,” he said.
The rider recently underwent a number of tests there and while the final conclusion is not yet known, his attention has shifted longer term.
“He has received some answers, but they are waiting for more results,” said Kvålsvol. “BMC must respond to the information.”
His coach, who was himself a successful professional, said last month that he is convinced that the 34 year old still had many victories ahead. “These circumstances will make Thor is much stronger in 2013,” he asserted.