“It would mean everything to me” - Wout van Aert eyes long-awaited Tour of Flanders win after near-misses

The spotlight at the Tour of Flanders does not fall solely on debutant Remco Evenepoel. One of the leading contenders for victory is Wout van Aert, who arrives after several weeks of racing at a high level and showing an attacking approach that inspires optimism.

Speaking to Cycling Pro Net, the Belgian assessed his form, his ambitions and his strategy for a race shaped by wind and the harshness of the cobbles. “I feel good. Thanks for the compliment. I’ve also really enjoyed the last races, and it would be incredible to race in the same way today.”

Van Aert did not hide what this race means to him: “It would mean everything to me. There’s nothing to hide. It’s been a goal of mine for years. Every time I start here, I get goosebumps. It’s definitely a huge goal, but also something very difficult to achieve.”

On how to approach the race, especially with potentially unfavourable wind conditions, he explained: “I’ll try to stay sheltered as much as possible, not waste too much energy in the wind and be ready to fight when it really matters.”

The Belgian also pointed to one of the decisive sections of the course: “The Kwaremont, especially the second passage, is usually the most important moment. I don’t think the race will really start much earlier than that, although nowadays racing often begins from far out, so you have to be ready for any scenario.”

As for his team’s role, he highlighted the importance of his teammates, particularly Matthew Brennan: “He’s a strong asset for the team. He’s learning a lot in this Classics campaign. Today, he will be especially valuable in responding to the early moves and helping me stay well-positioned. We can’t expect him to be there in the final at his age, but he will learn a lot and come out of this day stronger, for sure.”

We will see what Wout van Aert is capable of, having shown improved form at the start of the 2026 season with attacks across several Belgian Classics, where he has come close to victory. He has the legs and has also finished third at Milano-Sanremo. A podium today in a historic edition of the Tour of Flanders will certainly feel within reach.