“Ventoux is special” – Can Van Aert repeat his win from the 2021 Tour de France?

Wout van Aert is back where it all clicked. Stage 16 of the 2025 Tour de France marks the return of Mont Ventoux, and with it, a flood of memories for the Belgian rider. In 2021, he stunned the field by conquering Ventoux, winning a time trial, and later taking a sprint on the Champs-Élysées. But this time, he's cautious, knowing that history rarely repeats itself in cycling.

"It's unlikely it will suddenly happen again," Van Aert told Sporza.

Still, there’s no hiding his affection for the mountain. "Of course I'm looking forward to this ride," he said. "It's a beautiful climb, and I have fond memories of it. But for every Belgian, the Ventoux is special."

Van Aert understands what winning on this mountain represents, but he’s not banking on another miracle. "But that doesn't say anything about today. Every stage is different."

Reflecting on his legendary 2021 performance, he admits it was unique. "That victory was one of those days where everything just clicked. It's unlikely it will happen again now."

He’s feeling strong, but even he knows that might not be enough. "My legs are good, but I also think I've ridden better before."

And this year, the dynamics have shifted. "Compared to that Tour, it's quite similar. Only now I have a slightly different record, and that doesn't make a stunt like that from the breakaway any easier."

With Jonas Vingegaard chasing the yellow jersey, Van Aert’s role has adjusted. "He remains the team's main focus. There's only one rider ahead of him. It's logical that we focus on the general classification."