Wout Van Aert told Tour de France organizer ASO that he is considering legal action after a crash that forced him to abandon the race this year. The Belgian rider crashed into a barrier in the last kilometer of stage 13 of the time trial in Pau and suffered a deep wound to his right hip.

The crash ended Van Aert's debut Tour and road season prematurely and significantly delayed the start of his cyclocross campaign. It is still unclear when he will be able to return to competition.

At a press conference in Gouix on Sunday, the Jumbo-Visma rider said he did not rule out seeking damages from the ASO; according to Het Nieuwsblad, Van Aert and Jumbo-Visma have sent a letter to the ASO regarding the incident, but the issue of financial compensation issue has not yet been formally raised.

According to Het Nieuwsblad, "My management and team are currently reviewing the matter. It is clear that the severity of the injuries was due to the manner in which the barriers were placed."

Two weeks ago, Van Aert got on his bike for the first time since his accident and e-biked 7.5 km near his home in Herental. The act was a symbolic beginning to the next phase of his long rehabilitation.

"I'm heading in the right direction," Van Aert said, according to Belga News Agency. 'As you can see, I can walk quite well. Compared to a few weeks ago, the improvement is remarkable. I've been going to a physical therapist and I've been able to do some strengthening exercises, and I feel like an athlete. I already swim and I even ran for an hour on my home trainer. I'm very positive."

Prior to the crash, Van Aat had planned to end his road season early to focus on winter cyclocross. However, the three-time world champion admitted on Sunday that he was still unsure if he would be able to return during this winter cyclocross campaign.

"I hope so. At least, that's my goal," Van Aert said. I'm going to do everything I can to get back to cyclocross. I will continue my rehab. The question is, when will I get back in shape and get back to my best level?"