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Van Aert is Determined: “I Have to Think of Something Against Van der Poel and Pogacar…”
In the world of professional cycling, rivalries are as much a part of the sport as the climbs and sprints that define it. For Wout van Aert, that rivalry has crystallized around two names: Mathieu van der Poel and Tadej Pogacar. Both men have, in their own unique ways, pushed Van Aert to the limits of his abilities, and as the new racing season intensifies, so does his resolve.
Van Aert, known for his versatility across road racing, cyclocross, and time trials, has been a consistent force. Yet in the biggest moments—monuments like the Tour of Flanders, Milan-San Remo, or World Championships—he’s often found himself overshadowed by the brilliance of Van der Poel’s explosive power or Pogacar’s relentless climbing prowess.
Speaking candidly ahead of his next major campaign, Van Aert didn’t shy away from addressing the elephant in the room. “I have to think of something,” he said, half-laughing but fully serious. “Mathieu and Tadej are not just talented—they’re fearless, unpredictable. They race without hesitation. I need a new strategy.”
Van Aert has never lacked the engine to match his rivals. What he seems to be hinting at now is a psychological and tactical shift. In races where one decision can make or break the result, being reactive simply isn’t enough. “I’ve been strong, I’ve been fit, but sometimes I’ve raced too safe. You can’t do that against guys like them. You have to take risks.”
He’s not just looking at his training numbers anymore. He’s studying races, examining how Van der Poel launches his devastating attacks from seemingly impossible positions, or how Pogacar sustains high pace over long climbs to isolate and break rivals. “It’s chess on wheels,” Van Aert says. “And if you play the same opening every time, they learn how to beat you.”
Off the bike, Van Aert is consulting with his Jumbo-Visma team’s performance staff and even mental coaches to explore new dimensions of preparation. The goal isn’t just physical peak—it’s tactical clarity and mental sharpness.
“Every race with those guys is a chance to learn, but it’s also a chance to win,” he said. “I’m not racing to finish second anymore. I’m racing to outthink them, to outfight them.”
With the Spring Classics underway and the Tour de France on the horizon, cycling fans can expect fireworks. If Van Aert’s determination is anything to go by, this year’s showdowns with Van der Poel and Pogacar could be legendary.
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