“It took you a long time to understand that” – Wout van Aert keeps fans guessing on Tour de France sprinting ambitions

Wout van Aert isn’t just keeping the peloton on its toes, he’s also keeping reporters guessing. After claiming second in yesterday’s sprint finish despite previously saying he wouldn’t contest it, the Belgian rider added another twist this morning with a tongue-in-cheek tweet claiming he’d be sprinting again in Stage 9.

Speaking to Sporza, Van Aert leaned into the fun. When a reporter noted that riders don’t always stick to what they say, Van Aert burst out laughing, “I have to say: it took you a long time to understand that.”

Though in good spirits, Van Aert offered just enough ambiguity to keep fans unsure of what to expect. “You certainly can [believe me],” he said of today’s tweet. “We're not obligated to reveal everything we plan to do, you know.”

He’s been hunting a Tour stage win since 2022, stalled at nine victories, and seems to be enjoying the chase to get back to the top step at the Tour. “You'll see later,” he said with a grin. “I couldn't help but keep laughing after yesterday's interviews. It's serious enough sometimes, I think.”

Van Aert is ready to give his all once again today, “I sprinted here in 2021 and timing is going to be very important,” he said about the prospects for today. “But it's difficult when you're here alone. A lead-out is crucial.”