"Would I have done the same in Gent-Wevelgem? Yes" - Tom Dumoulin proud of former teammate Wout van Aert

Although recently retired, Tom Dumoulin still keeps a close eye on all things cycling. His former team Jumbo-Visma have been dominating this season and the Dutchman couldn't be prouder.

"I don't know a team that is doing better at the moment. They insist on the group feeling, but they also automatically create that feeling. Everything is right," says Dumoulin to the podcast Sporza Koers. "Everything is in perfect order at Jumbo-Visma and that creates a feeling of joint invincibility. This team radiates that and the results only boost it even more."

One thing that has been the talk of the cycling world in recent days has been the finale to Gent Wevelgem where Wout van Aert opted to allow teammate Christophe Laporte to take the victory. Whilst some ex-pro's have been critical of van Aert's decision, Dumoulin revealed he wouldn't have done the exact same thing.

"Van Aert is so under a magnifying glass in Belgium. It is sometimes difficult to deal with 101 opinions, especially when a great ex-rider like Tom Boonen says something that you do not agree with yourself," Dumoulin explains. "Would I have done the same in Wevelgem? Yes. I also rode with Christophe Laporte at Jumbo-Visma for another year. He really is a loyal and loyal warrior."

"If the situation arises, it is only right that a leader like Van Aert can say: 'I am so happy with the work you have already done for me. This victory is for you and for the team," Dumoulin continues. "It is to Van Aert's credit as a rider and as a person. I think I would have done the same."