Aksel Kryhlmand
It’s a serious condition, and we’re grateful it was identified early
Veteran Australian sprinter Michael Matthews will miss the 2025 Tour de France, after his team Jayco AlUla confirmed the discovery of a pulmonary embolism during a recent altitude training camp.
The news was announced Friday morning via the team’s social media channels and official website.
Medical Condition Discovered at Training Camp
According to the team, the 33-year-old rider’s health is stable, but all training and competition activities have been paused indefinitely as a precautionary measure.
The diagnosis was made during routine checks while Matthews was at an altitude training camp, part of his preparation for what would have been his ninth start at the Tour.
Matthews’ health condition is stable. The medical team are now thoroughly investigating the extent of the issue and possible cause, to define a safe and optimal recovery process for the athlete.
A pulmonary embolism is a serious condition caused by a blood clot blocking arteries in the lungs, and can be life-threatening if not treated immediately.
Fortunately, early detection has enabled Matthews to begin a thorough evaluation and recovery under medical supervision.
A Career Interrupted Just as Momentum Returned
The news comes as a significant blow to both Matthews and his team. After a challenging few seasons, the Australian rider had shown signs of returning to form.
He claimed his first WorldTour win since 2022 at Eschborn-Frankfurt earlier this May, holding off Magnus Cort in an emotional victory.
Matthews, a four-time Tour de France stage winner and winner of the green jersey in 2017, had been targeting this summer’s Grand Tour to further cement his legacy and revive his sprinting prowess.
His absence from the Tour will undoubtedly leave a gap in the Jayco AlUla squad, who had been counting on his experience and finishing ability in flat and punchy stages.
Uncertain Timeline, But Health Comes First
No timeline has been given for Matthews’ return to racing, and team officials have reiterated that his long-term health is the priority.
The immediate focus will be determining the cause and extent of the embolism and mapping out a safe recovery process.
It’s a serious condition, and we’re grateful it was identified early,” one team source noted. “Michael’s well-being is everything right now.
As of now, Matthews’ entire 2025 racing calendar is in question, and it remains unclear whether he will compete again this season.