"He rode a little too much in the shadow of van der Poel" - Sep Vanmarcke wants to see more aggressive style from Wout van Aert

In the first meeting of Mathieu van der Poel and Wout van Aert of the 2024 road season at the E3 Saxo Classic last week, it was the Dutchman who prevailed, rather comfortably in the end.

Reflecting on the race and van Aert's early season form, ex-pro Sep Vanmarcke admitted he wanted to see a more aggressive form of racing from his compatriot. “In my opinion, he rode a little too much in the shadow of van der Poel," the two-time former Gent Wevelgem runner-up analyses via the Wuyts & Vlaeminck podcast for HLN.

"When the world champion attacked, he was there. But Van Aert had to chase and react every time. He himself could not yet make the action," Vanmarcke continues although he admits van Aert may not yet be at his peak and more is likely to be expected in the coming weeks. "At the foot of the Paterberg you simply have to be the first or second to go. Only then are you in control. Van Aert was not quite there yet.”

A big question for van Aert this season is his decision to prepare at altitude whilst van der Poel prepares with regular race rhythm. “Of course he cannot question his own preparation," Michael Wuyts adds to the conversation. "Then he undermines his own moral authority."