Wout Van Aert, the accomplished Belgian cyclist representing Visma-Lease a Bike, recently fell short in a thrilling sprint finish against American rider Neilson Powless of EF Education-EasyPost during a race in Waregem. Despite experiencing cramping that affected his performance at a crucial moment, Van Aert expressed his “extreme disappointment” post-race. However, it appears that this setback has not substantially impacted his confidence ahead of upcoming challenges on his calendar. As the elite cyclist prepares for the prestigious Tour of Flanders, he has made it clear that his spirit remains unshaken.
In a candid statement, Van Aert emphasized that the events of Wednesday did not diminish his trust in his abilities. In fact, he believes that the experience has equipped him with renewed confidence. “I am here with more confidence than last week,” he remarked, referring to a sense of improvement he has felt in comparison to his prior races. With crucial days following his disappointment in Waregem, he asserted, “Two days later, I feel much better again.” This indicates a swift recovery both physically and mentally, which can be vital for any athlete anticipating high-stakes competitions.
After analyzing his experience in Waregem, Van Aert took full responsibility, admitting, “I was too selfish.” He participated in a debriefing session with his team, emphasizing the need to learn from past mistakes. Though this meeting extended longer than usual, it demonstrated a commitment to growth and teamwork moving forward. From that point on, Van Aert and his team shifted their focus to the future, aligning their strategy for the challenges that lie ahead in the classic cycling calendar.
The upcoming Tour of Flanders presents a unique and fiercely competitive environment, where Van Aert will confront formidable rivals such as Mathieu van der Poel and Tadej Pogacar. Both riders have showcased their extraordinary skills in previous races, making them strong contenders for a podium finish. Van Aert recognizes that “you’ll need a lot to be up there with them.” He expressed hope that he would be able to ride at his best and remain competitive alongside these exceptional athletes in the famed race, which he has yet to win.
Addressing whether he feels an extra drive to clinch victory at the Tour of Flanders, he clarified that it is not an obsession, but rather a significant goal he shares with many other competitors. Aiming for his first home Monument victory, Van Aert’s last achievement of this caliber dates back to 2020 when he triumphed at Milan-San Remo. As such, the stakes are high, and the anticipation surrounding the race is palpable, not only for him but also for his supporters.
For those interested in watching the Tour of Flanders 2025 unfold, comprehensive coverage will be available on TNT Sports and discovery+. The broadcast of the Men’s Elite race is set to commence at 09:00 on Sunday, April 6, on TNT Sports 1, followed by the Women’s Elite race starting at 13:45 on TNT Sports 2. TNT Sports holds a strong presence across all major television platforms and provides a robust suite of channels dedicated to sports enthusiasts, including TNT Sports 1 through 4, as well as multiple digital channels for enhanced coverage.
Subscribers can access TNT Sports through several providers, including BT, EE, Sky, and Virgin Media, ensuring fans do not miss a moment of the action. This level of access allows cycling enthusiasts to enjoy top-tier events, from the Giro d’Italia and Tour de France to the Vuelta a España, both live and on-demand, enhancing the cycling viewing experience.