Ellen van Dijk's Paris Olympics Comeback

Three-time world time trial champion Ellen van Dijk will compete in the Paris Olympics despite a fractured ankle. Following a remarkable recovery, van Dijk is poised for potentially spectacular performances in both individual time trial and road race. The Dutch cycling team is gearing up for a strong showing across events.

Three-time world time-trial champion Ellen van Dijk of the Netherlands is set to compete in the race against the clock at the Paris Olympics, only six weeks after fracturing her ankle during a training camp in Spain, which required surgery.

On Wednesday, the Dutch Cycling Federation announced that van Dijk would be ready for the Summer Games, marking the end of a stunning recovery that began with her training in a cast. This sets up a highly anticipated showdown between her and Chloe Dygert, the reigning world time-trial champion from the United States.

"From the moment I fell, I knew what I had to do: prepare myself for the Games,'' van Dijk said. ''I am really looking forward to joining the team and showcasing something beautiful in Paris."

The Dutch cycling team, which tied with Britain atop the medal table in Tokyo, is fielding a formidable lineup featuring Demi Vollering, Marianne Vos, and top sprinter Lorena Wiebes for the road race. Dutch national team coach Loes Gunnewijk expressed confidence in the team's chances for medals.

The men's team, led by reigning world champion Mathieu van der Poel, will also be strong contenders. On the track, Harrie Lavreysen and Jeffrey Hoogland will defend their titles, joined by Roy van den Berg in the team sprint. The Dutch have lofty ambitions in mountain biking and BMX as well.

(With inputs from agencies.)