"I can still gain a lot" - Wout van Aert looking for progress as he supports Jonas Vingegaard at Volta ao Algarve

After an admittedly disappointing return to the road at the Clásica Jaén Paraiso Interior earlier this week, Wout van Aert gets back on the bike today as the 2025 Volta ao Algarve gets underway in Portugal. Given his slow start, the Belgian is keen to see progress made.

"I rode the Volta ao Algarve for the first time last year and I liked it. I was already good in the opening weekend," Van Aert explains in a pre-stage 1 interview ahead of the Portuguese stage race getting underway this afternoon, insisting this can definitely be the right place for him to make positive steps in his development. "That depends on your preparation. Guys who have raced a lot can only make a small step here, but I personally feel that I can still gain a lot."

Although primarily present in a supporting role for Jonas Vingegaard, there are sprint opportunities over the next few days. As such, Van Aert has the chance to regain that winning feeling. "We are here mainly for a classification for Jonas. We're not going to control things for a bunch sprint today, but I will get a free pass. If it stays together, I hope to place myself well," concludes the 30-year-old. "Winning a stage is not the immediate goal this week. But I'm not going to just let it go."