Jens Keukerer (EF Pro Cycling) told Sporza on Thursday that he fell ill just before the global coronavirus blockade was implemented, and after a long recovery period he is finally back to normal.

Keukerer competed in the Tour Down Under, Race Torquay, and the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race before returning to Belgium to compete in the opening weekend of the Omloop Het Nieuwsblad and Coure Brussel-Koenet. A few weeks later he began to show symptoms, which were recently identified as COVID-19.

Two weeks ago, he underwent an antibody test for the virus that could detect previous infections, which was positive.

"I was tested a few weeks ago, and I was infected with the virus," Keukerer told Sporza. 'We also have a general idea of when I was infected. I got sick about two or three weeks after the opening weekend [February 29 and March 1]. The lockdown was about to start."

"I had a fever, but otherwise no corona symptoms like loss of smell or taste. But the virus got to me

"I had a fever for a long time and felt for a long time that there was something not normal in my body. I was tired for a long time and had to rest for a while."

Cycling News saw draft UCI guidance for allowing athletes to train after coronavirus infection, but the risk of cardiac complications was highlighted.

Kekeleer said he had undergone additional testing to ensure his heart and lungs were not affected.

"If there had been a heart rhythm problem, things would have been different. In recent years, many Corona patients have had their hearts affected and many riders have been forced to retire due to heart problems. I don't like to think about that too much."

"I can go into the race with confidence, but I didn't do what I needed to do during this time. I haven't been able to maintain my condition at my previous level."

Keukerer said he was in daily contact with the team doctor while he was sick.

"Since three weeks ago, everything feels back to normal. My body responds normally to the stimuli I give it. My leg rotation is also improving. I am glad that there are no aftereffects."