Wout van Aert is a renowned Belgian cyclist known for his remarkable versatility across various disciplines, including road racing, cyclocross, and time trials. Born on September 15, 1994, in Herentals, Belgium, van Aert first gained prominence in cyclocross, where he showcased his immense talent by winning three consecutive UCI Cyclocross World Championships from 2016 to 2018. His success in the discipline established him as one of the sport’s elite competitors and laid the groundwork for his transition to road racing.
In 2019, van Aert joined the UCI WorldTeam Jumbo-Visma, marking the beginning of a highly successful road racing career. He quickly made an impact, earning a stage win in the Tour de France during his debut year and excelling in the time trial discipline. Despite suffering a serious crash in the Tour de France that year, he made a remarkable recovery, demonstrating resilience that would define his career.
Van Aert’s achievements on the road have been diverse and impressive. He has proven himself as a formidable sprinter, climber, and time trialist, winning stages in prestigious races like the Tour de France and multiple one-day classics. His victories include iconic races such as Milan-San Remo in 2020 and the Amstel Gold Race in 2021. He is also known for his thrilling rivalry with compatriot Mathieu van der Poel, which spans both cyclocross and road racing. Their battles, especially in the Tour of Flanders and cyclocross World Championships, have captivated cycling fans worldwide.
In addition to his individual accolades, van Aert has been a vital team player for Jumbo-Visma, often taking on key roles in stage races and Grand Tours. His exceptional abilities have made him a reliable domestique for general classification leaders while maintaining his status as a top contender in his own right. His versatility and teamwork were pivotal in Jumbo-Visma’s domination of the 2023 Tour de France, where he played a crucial role in supporting Jonas Vingegaard’s overall victory.
Van Aert’s career is characterized by his relentless work ethic, adaptability, and competitive spirit. Whether dominating in cyclocross, excelling in the classics, or contributing to his team’s success in Grand Tours, he has established himself as one of the most complete cyclists of his generation. With numerous accolades already to his name and his peak years still ahead, Wout van Aert continues to inspire as a symbol of Belgian cycling excellence and global versatility in the sport.