With Omloop Het Nieuwsblad and Kuurne-Brussels-Kuurne approaching, Wout van Aert is about to kick off his classics campaign. It’s a crucial spring for the Belgian rider from Visma | Lease a Bike, with a lot on the line. After years of bad luck, it’s time to take the next step in his career—something he’s making significant sacrifices for.
Back in action: Following a short but intense cyclocross season, Van Aert returned to racing at the Clásica Jaén. After his unfortunate crash in the Vuelta a España, which left him with a nasty knee injury, the all-rounder is feeling strong again. “I can rely on two strong legs again,” he told La Gazzetta dello Sport. “And last year, during the Vuelta, I already proved that I can return to a high level after serious injuries. Now, I have confidence again.”
Although he only raced six times in the mud this winter, reconnecting with his first love—cyclo-cross—was crucial for his mental state. Van Aert felt like a true racer again, experiencing the thrill of competing for championships. “I’ve rediscovered the joy of racing, and all the support from the fans has been really beneficial as I prepare for the road season.”
Just over two weeks after the World Championships in Liévin, the 30-year-old rider from Herentals took on his first multi-day challenge at the Volta ao Algarve. Luck wasn’t on his side when it came to winning—he finished seventh twice in the bunch sprints. However, in the final time trial, he delivered an impressive performance, finishing second behind his teammate Jonas Vingegaard. “The time trial in Portugal was really important for me. I suffered a lot, and it was tough to maintain the right pace, but I pushed myself hard. It was a great step forward towards the classics.”
In January, Van Aert already announced most of his road race schedule. No Milan-Sanremo or Strade Bianche, both races he has previously won, and he has a clear reason for that. “I need to win the Monuments I’m missing,” he admitted. “With the list of results I have, I feel obligated to race for victories—first and foremost, Flanders and Roubaix. It wouldn’t make much sense to settle for other races in the spring. I’m ambitious, yes, but if it doesn’t work out, I’ll still enjoy knowing that I tried to chase my dreams.”
“I want to set a good example for my children”
After last year’s crashes, the unlucky star is more vocal than ever about safety. Van Aert concludes with a message: “Every day, I face the dangers of traffic while training. My children make me see the world differently. The message is about discouraging the use of mobile phones while cycling and ensuring the safety of the youngest riders. We always emphasize that they should stay on the right side of us, that they should cross at pedestrian crossings. I always wear a helmet, even when I’m riding my city bike. I want to set a good example for my children.”
