Max Poole has been ruled out of the Vuelta a España after being diagnosed with Epstein-Barr virus, forcing Picnic PostNL to reshuffle its lineup with American Kevin Vermaerke set for a farewell grand tour with the team.
The 22-year-old Brit abandoned the Tour de Pologne last week before stage 5 and underwent testing that revealed EBV, a virus that has sidelined numerous top pros in the past, including Mark Cavendish.
“It’s been a difficult few weeks trying to work out what the situation was,” Poole said in a team release. “I’m pretty relieved to now understand the root of the problem as it means that I can start to focus on recovery and getting my health back on track. I’m really disappointed to miss the Vuelta, and wish the team the best.”
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Team doctor Camiel Aldershof confirmed the diagnosis, saying Poole requires “a longer period of rest” to fully recover.
“We’ve been looking into the possible reasons for Max’s health problems over the past few weeks, and today we confirmed that he has Epstein-Barr virus with glandular fever,” Aldershof said. “Now we know what’s behind his symptoms, we can start moving in the right direction with his recovery.”
With EBV requiring a long recovery, it’s unlikely Poole will race again in 2025.
Vermaerke in Vuelta ‘adios’ before move to UAE
Poole was one of the revelations of last year’s Vuelta, racking up four stage podiums and finishing third in the points classification.
His absence is a blow for Picnic PostNL as the Dutch-based team is in a heated points battle to secure its WorldTour license, sitting just 17th in the rolling three-year rankings.
Stepping in is Vermaerke, who will make his Vuelta debut before leaving the team where he turned pro in 2021 for UAE Emirates-XRG in 2026.
Also read: Vermaerke joins UAE on two-year deal
The American all-rounder will be part of a team packed with riders who will target breakaways, reduced bunch sprints, and climbing stages.
“We are disappointed to lose Max, but with a good group here, we’re looking forward to getting things underway in Torino,” coach Phil West said Wednesday. “In a grand tour, every day is a challenge but also an opportunity. Kevin, Chris, and the rest of our climbers will have their chances.”
A strong showing in Spain could secure the team’s WorldTour survival going into 2026.
Picnic PostNL for the 2025 Vuelta:
Patrick Eddy
Chris Hamilton
Bjorn Koerdt
Gijs Leemreize
Juan Martinez
Timo Roosen
Casper van Uden
Kevin Vermaerke