Wout van Aert, the Belgian cycling superstar, concluded his 2025 road season at the Super 8 Classic on Saturday, capping a year of remarkable highs and some frustrating near-misses. The Visma | Lease a Bike rider, known for his versatility and explosive performances, reflected on a season that included standout victories at the Giro d’Italia and Tour de France, while expressing excitement for a well-earned off-season focused on family.
Van Aert’s 2025 campaign was defined by moments of brilliance, including a vintage triumph in Siena at the Giro d’Italia in May and a memorable Tour de France stage win in Paris, where he outpaced rival Tadej Pogačar on the iconic Montmartre climb. However, the season also had its challenges, with missed opportunities at races like Dwars door Vlaanderen, where Neilson Powless outsmarted Van Aert’s Visma squad, and De Brabantse Pijl, where Remco Evenepoel edged him out in a sprint.
In his final race of the season at the Super 8 Classic, Van Aert shifted his focus to supporting his team’s rising star, British prodigy Matthew Brennan, who secured an impressive second place behind Arnaud De Lie. Speaking to HLN after the race, Van Aert admitted his own form wasn’t at its peak, saying, “With a slightly better version of myself and that of my teammates, we could have played a little more.” Despite Visma | Lease a Bike’s numerical advantage in the closing stages with Van Aert, Christophe Laporte, and Brennan, the Belgian recognized his limitations. “It went better for me than during the races in Canada, but I didn’t have the confidence that if I got to the front with someone, it would finish it,” he said. “I have enjoyed trying to keep things together.”
Reflecting on his season, Van Aert highlighted the highs that defined his year. “The stage wins in Siena [Giro] and Paris [Tour] have made my year anyway,” he told HLN. However, he also acknowledged the disappointments, such as tactical errors and missed chances in key races. “There were also lesser moments, where I missed opportunities,” he noted.
Now, with the road season behind him, Van Aert is eager to step away from the bike and embrace his role as a father. “Now it’s time for vacation. But without a bicycle. They will be happy with that at home,” he said with a smile. “Now I can really be a dad for once.” The comment reflects Van Aert’s desire to prioritize family time during the off-season, a rare opportunity for the 31-year-old who has juggled a demanding racing schedule with fatherhood.
Fans on X have celebrated Van Aert’s 2025 achievements while expressing support for his well-deserved break. One user posted, “Wout’s had an incredible year, but you can tell he’s ready to be with his family. Legend on and off the bike!” Another wrote, “From Siena to Paris, Wout’s delivered. Enjoy the dad life!”
Van Aert’s next appearance may come in the cyclocross season this winter, where his grit and versatility will likely shine once again. For now, the Belgian superstar is relishing the chance to recharge and spend quality time with his family, leaving fans eagerly awaiting his return to competition.
