Janaury 16, 2009 – Stijn Devolder had some problems with his left knee during team Quick Step’s training camp in Spain. The winner of the 2008 Ronde Van Vlaanderen has pain in his left kneecap after a fall he took whilst training in Belgium last week. Devolder didn’t take part in yesterday’s training, and today he only pedalled for about an hour, returning to the hotel in Benicassim by car.

Devolder will return to Belgium, where he will undergo a series of tests. He will respect also a period of rest of 10 days.

“It’s a real pity – explained Devolder – This problem is going to slow my preparation. But in agreement with the medical staff, I don’t want to take any risk. This is why I’m going back to Belgium for some tests. I take comfort in the fact that it’s better to have this kind of problem at the beginning of the season, rather than when the races are in full swing.”