Giro 2024: DSM firm PostNL and Fabio Jakobsen must continue without ill Bram Welten

Bram Welten did not start in the fourth stage of the Giro d’Italia. The Dutchman from DSM-firmenich PostNL, who attended the Tour of Italy to assist Fabio Jakobsen in the sprint stages, has a high temperature and is suffering from a cough.

Due to the disappearance of Welten, Fabio Jakobsen loses an important pawn in the sprint train. On paper, Jakobsen now only has Julius van den Berg and Tobias Lund Andresen at his disposal in the run-up to a sprint. Riders such as Gijs Leemreize, Chris Hamilton and Kevin Vermaerke can of course also lend a helping hand. Romain Bardet is considered the leader of the Dutch formation, but the Frenchman already lost quite a bit of time in the opening weekend.

Disappointment
“Bram suffered from a cough and chest pain during Monday’s ride,” says Camiel Aldershof, team doctor at DSM-firmenich PostNL. “Medical examination has revealed that he has a fever, in addition to his cough having worsened. We have decided that it is better for his own health and those around him that he does not continue the match. Bram is now taking the time to rest and recover at home.”

Welten was very disappointed that he had to leave the Giro, says sports director Matt Winston. “He came here in good shape. But we will not only miss his qualities on the bike, because he also creates a good atmosphere in the group off the bike. We will miss his teamwork in the race and of course his role as lead-out in the sprint group. We wish him a good recovery. The rest of the boys are motivated to keep going in a good way.”

Fourth quitter
The 27-year-old Welten is the fourth to quit this Giro d’Italia. Earlier, Robert Gesink (Visma | Lease a Bike), Simon Carr (EF Education-EasyPost) and Eddie Dunbar (Jayco AlUla) left the round.

Dropouts

Stage 2

Stage 3

Stage 4