After months without competition, Olav Kooij returns to racing with an 'open mind'

Thursday is finally the day: we will see Olav Kooij's debut in the colors of Decathlon CMA CGM. The Dutch sprinter has not yet raced for his new team due to a persistent virus, but that will change at the Boucles de la Mayenne (May 28-31).

He was welcomed with much fanfare last winter as the new top sprinter, but Decathlon CMA CGM has not yet been able to enjoy Olav Kooij’s talent. A stubborn virus just before the start of the season threw a big wrench in the plans. The 24-year-old rider had to spend months recovering, but is now finally fit enough to pin on a race number.

“I feel good, especially when I look back at a few months ago when I was struggling with the virus,” an upbeat Kooij said through his new team's media channels. “After that, there was a period where I had to train again and build my fitness back up to the point where I could race. Fortunately, that moment is almost here.”

Race rhythm
“I’m really looking forward to riding my first race with the team and being part of the peloton again,” the fast man continues. “I’m approaching the race with an open mind to see where I stand and to regain my race rhythm and feel.”

So Kooij does not have any specific expectations at the start. “We will see what I can achieve in the end. We will give it our all, as always, and then take it day by day to see how we can secure good results as a team.”

After the Boucles de la Mayenne, the sprinter will head to altitude training before competing in the Baloise Belgium Tour (June 17-21). Kooij then hopes to continue preparing for the Tour de France. It is still unclear whether the new signing will be part of Decathlon CMA CGM’s Tour selection. Due to the rapid progress of Paul Seixas, the team may make changes to the roster.