One assumption in modern professional cycling is that Adam Hansen will be part of the Lotto-Soudal for the Giro d’Italia, Tour de France and Vuelta a España – each year, every year. That’s how it’s been for a long time and how many believed it would be again in 2017.

RIDE Media has learned, however, that the Belgian team has struck the Australian from the selection list for the 72nd Vuelta, which is due to start in Nîmes, France, in 15 days.

If the team follows through with its decision, it will signal an end to one of sport’s most impressive feats of endurance.

The story of the record is a well known one, repeated often in recent years, and it never gets old.

Since September 2011, Hansen has contested every one of cycling’s Grand Tours – and finished each one. But the effects of a saddle sore in July could herald an end this impressive record.

RIDE Media became aware of the news about the possible end to the record succession of Grand Tour starts by chance.

We contacted Hansen to discuss a number of technical innovations – including new hand-made shoes by his brand, Hanseeno, and his possible use of new Campagnolo disc brakes at the Vuelta – only to be told that the Spanish race may not be on his program this year.

Our discussion included references to his penchant for new disc brakes released by Campagnolo earlier this year. And that’s when Hansen let his news slip.

Will you be racing with disc brakes at the Vuelta?

“Unfortunately,” he casually replied, “I have not been selected for this year’s Vuelta. So no, I won’t be using them.”

Are you serious? This would stop your record. This can not be true…!

“Yes it is,” he replied.

“I was just told by one sports director recently that I would not be taking part in this year’s Vuelta, that I did not make the selection.

“The team has riders other than myself who they would prefer to take.”

While upset about not getting to continue the trio of Grand Tour tradition that began at the Vuelta in 2011, Hansen was diplomatic with his reaction.

“Sure,” he said, “I am not thrilled with this decision and it’s hard for me to take.

“It’s not the way I wanted it to end, but this is the team choice and it’s not in my control.

“I have to respect what they say.”

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