Wout van Aert returns to racing with photo finish victory ahead of Jasper Philipsen at post Tour de France criterium

Wout van Aert is having a wonderful few weeks. After helping Jonas Vingegaard to claim the Maillot Jaune at the Tour de France, the Belgian welcomed a baby boy, Jerome into his growing family. Now, van Aert has returned to racing in Herentals on Thursday evening, taking a narrow victory.

“I live on a pink cloud towards the World Championship,” said a delighted van Aert post-race. “There was not much rest in the past few days. With the World Championship just around the corner, I have to keep training. I am still fully on schedule.”

In a thrilling sprint finish, van Aert edged out fellow Belgian Jasper Philipsen for the victory in Herentals. “It is always nice to ride in your own environment. The organizers have again gathered a nice field of participants," he analyses. "The weather was bad so everyone used their wits and didn't take too many risks. Logical, with it also at the World Championship.”

“My legs could be a little better, but I'm fine. I came out of the Tour well. Next week I will rest a lot and prepare for the World Championship," he concludes. "Whoever comes out of the Tour has to stay focused and get fresh. You can't straighten much more in these weeks. The condition is what it is and it is very good.”

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