Australian Michael Rogers will will miss January's Santos Tour Down Under and Mars Cycling Australia Road National championships after a pre-existing heart condition was red flagged by team medical checks.
“Michael was diagnosed with a congenital bicuspid aortic valve in 2001”, Dr. Piet De Moor, head of Tinkoff-Saxo’s medical team said.
"The aortic valve plays a crucial role in cardiac output by preventing blood from re-entering the left ventricle from the main artery.
"Due to the Michael’s bicuspid formation, the valve is prevented from sealing perfectly, causing a small amount of blood to return back into the left ventricle.
"Michael’s condition has been well documented throughout his career and has been under constant observation by several sports cardiologists”.
Rogers's condition will be assessed further and he will follow a lighter training program until its safe to return to racing intensity.
“My first stage win and overall victory in the professional ranks was at the 2002 Tour Down Under, so I’m disappointed I will not be present for next year’s edition”, Rogers said.
“I look forward to being back doing what I adore most, trying to win bike races for myself and my teammates."
