In an impressive display of teamwork and strategy at the Giro d’Italia, TNT Sports expert Matt Stephens hailed Wout van Aert as a “game changer” following the remarkable victory by his teammate, Olav Kooij, who clinched the final stage of the renowned cycling event. The Dutch cyclist benefited from stellar support from his team, Visma-Lease a Bike, particularly from his team-mates Edoardo Affini and the ever-dynamic Van Aert. Together, they facilitated Kooij’s powerful sprint towards the finish line, solidifying their team’s prowess in competitive cycling.
Reflecting on the dramatic conclusion of the race during a segment on the show *The Breakaway*, Stephens shared his admiration for Affini’s strong performance. He described Affini as an “absolute machine,” highlighting a captivating moment in the race where Affini was positioned on the right side of the road as Dries De Bondt endeavored to keep pace on the left. While De Bondt struggled to maintain his speed, Affini showcased raw power, expertly positioning Van Aert at the optimal moment. Stephens noted, “Then just the speed they carried on, [it] meant they created the space to drop off Kooij in the right place,” underscoring the calculated teamwork that allowed for Kooij’s triumphant finish.
Van Aert’s role proved crucial as he gracefully swung off to allow his team-mates the space they needed to sprint ahead, eventually leading to Kooij’s victory. “Superb team performance. A pink tidal wave, basically,” Stephens celebrated. He conveyed the impact Van Aert has on any race situation, claiming, “You put Wout anywhere—he’s a game changer, isn’t he? You put him in any situation in a bike race, and he will make a difference.” This energetic acknowledgment of Van Aert’s influence speaks volumes about his abilities on the cycling circuit.
Post-race, Van Aert expressed genuine happiness for his team-mate Simon Yates, revealing his emotional response to Yates’ achievement. “I feel kind of emotional. He’s such a relaxed guy, but you could really see that it means so much to him,” Van Aert stated, emphasizing the significance of the moment, especially in light of Yates’ previous challenges in the tour. The team’s journey throughout the Giro had its difficulties, with Van Aert likening their struggle to the stubbornness of an almost empty ketchup bottle that seems to withhold its contents until the pressure suddenly releases. “…When you have a ketchup bottle, and it’s almost empty, keep shaking and shaking. Nothing happens, and then something comes out all at once!” he metaphorically suggested.
Looking beyond the Giro, the cycle team’s performance has raised expectations for the forthcoming Tour de France. Despite facing challenges throughout 2024, which diverged sharply from their dominating performance in 2023 where they excelled in all the Grand Tours, Stephens indicated that Visma-Lease a Bike has started to regain its competitive edge. He observed, “Going back to 2023 when they dominated… 2024, barren,” but also noted the team’s resurgence, emphasizing the renewed joy among the riders as they have found ways to work collaboratively.
This collective spirit and trust within the team, according to Stephens, is vital for their success moving forward. He commented on their quality and potential for a turnaround, assuring fans that the team is not only resilient but also possesses the talent to compete at a high level. With whispers of Jonas Vingegaard being in peak form, the team, now buoyed by newfound momentum, is certainly one to watch as they move into another demanding season.
As cycling fans prepare to stream the 2025 season, which will undoubtedly include thrilling rounds like the Giro d’Italia, Tour de France, and Vuelta a España, the excitement surrounding Visma-Lease a Bike’s future looks promising, especially after witnessing their strong performance and camaraderie at the Giro d’Italia.
