Meersman out for two months

Belgian Gianni Meersman (Française des Jeux) was just 15 seconds off the pace.

Belgian Gianni Meersman (Française des Jeux) was just 15 seconds off the pace. (Image credit: Elmar Krings)

Gianni Meersman, who missed much of last season due to back problems and surgery, is facing more of the same this year. It is not yet known whether he will need further surgery.