Neilson Powless Sidelined: A Setback for the American Cycling Star
American cyclist Neilson Powless will miss the upcoming Spring Classics season after undergoing surgery to address persistent pain in his left knee. The EF Education-EasyPost rider’s team announced the news on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, marking a significant setback for the 29-year-old.
Knee Troubles and the Road to Surgery
Powless initially experienced knee pain during his winter training block. He returned to riding earlier this year, even participating in the Tour de la Provence, but the pain resurfaced on stage 3, forcing him to withdraw from the race. Multiple scans over two months initially showed improvement, but a final scan revealed lingering inflammation. Surgery to remove inflamed tissue was deemed the best course of action to ensure a full recovery.
Impact on the Classics Season
This injury throws Powless’s plans for the Spring Classics into disarray. He had specifically targeted his debut at Paris-Roubaix, aiming for a top-10 finish. Other races on his schedule included the E3 Saxo Classic, Dwars door Vlaanderen, Amstel Gold Race, La Flèche Wallonne, and Liège-Bastogne-Liège. Powless’s 2025 victory at Dwars door Vlaanderen, where he impressively defeated a strong Visma-Lease a Bike team including Wout van Aert, highlighted his potential in these prestigious one-day races.
Recovery Timeline and Future Outlook
The team’s medical staff, led by Dr. Jon Greenwell, estimates Powless will be off the bike for eight to twelve weeks. While acknowledging the disappointment, Powless remains optimistic. “At least now You can say that the problem is solved and I can move forward with a clear path of recovery,” he stated. He anticipates a cautious return to racing, with a clear recovery plan in place.
The Rise of Pro Cycling Injuries: A Growing Concern
Powless’s situation isn’t isolated. The demands of professional cycling are increasing, leading to a rise in injuries among riders. The intensity of training, combined with the physical stresses of racing, particularly on challenging terrain, contribute to overuse injuries like those affecting Powless’s knee.
The Role of Team Support and Medical Innovation
Effective team medical support is crucial for managing these challenges. Teams are investing more in sports science, physiotherapy, and advanced diagnostic tools to identify and address potential issues before they become debilitating. The decision to opt for surgery, as in Powless’s case, demonstrates a proactive approach to long-term health, and performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long will Neilson Powless be out of competition?
A: He is expected to be off the bike for 8-12 weeks.
Q: What caused Neilson Powless’s knee injury?
A: Persistent pain and inflammation in his left knee, requiring surgery to remove inflamed tissue.
Q: Which races will Neilson Powless miss?
A: He will miss the Spring Classics, including Paris-Roubaix, E3 Saxo Classic, Dwars door Vlaanderen, Amstel Gold Race, La Flèche Wallonne, and Liège-Bastogne-Liège.
Q: What was Neilson Powless’s standout performance in 2025?
A: He won Dwars door Vlaanderen, defeating a strong Visma-Lease a Bike team.
Did you know? Neilson Powless’s 2025 victory at Dwars door Vlaanderen was a significant achievement, showcasing his ability to compete with the world’s best cyclists.
Stay updated with the latest cycling news and rider updates. Explore more articles on our website.