Robert Wagner will soon end his season because of an operation to his groin artery. The German will undergo surgery in September. The 32-year LottoNL-Jumbo rider is already looking forward to next season.

"I have no choice, the problems with my left femoral artery have hindered me all season lang," Wagner said. "I can’t race the way I would like to race. I can ride, but I can’t really do much more.”

Wagner is optimistic about the operation and his recovery. “Five years ago, after femoral artery problems to my right leg, I underwent surgery as well. Everything went well and in 2011 I became road champion of Germany. 

"It takes two months before I can really train again after the operation. I’m very motivated for 2016, though. The team’s successes in Thursday’s time trial give me a lot of morale.”