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Wout van Aert arrives at the Tour of Flanders with mixed emotions and a point to prove. The Belgian star, long seen as a favorite for the cobbled Classics, is navigating a spring campaign filled with ups and downs. His recent defeat at Dwars door Vlaanderen has cast a shadow over his form and status within his team, Visma-Lease a Bike, raising questions about his role as the clear leader. For a rider of Van Aert’s caliber, accustomed to racing from the front and being the focal point of team tactics, the loss was more than just a missed opportunity — it was a psychological blow.
Dwars door Vlaanderen was meant to be a confidence-builder, a final tune-up before Flanders. Instead, it became a reminder of how fierce the competition is and how small the margins can be. Matteo Jorgenson’s growing strength, combined with the consistency of other teammates, has led to a potential tactical reshuffle within the team. Van Aert now heads into one of the biggest races of the season not necessarily as the undisputed leader, but as part of a more fluid, opportunistic strategy.
Yet, not all is gloom. Despite the setback, Van Aert is finally showing signs that he’s reaching his best form. His legs are coming around at the right time, and the sensations in the final kilometers of recent races suggest that he’s peaking just as Flanders approaches. After a slow start to the season, partly due to illness and conservative race planning, Van Aert now appears more aggressive, more engaged, and more confident in his capabilities.
Flanders is a race that suits him perfectly — the steep, punchy climbs, the narrow roads, and the intense tactical battles. He knows the course like the back of his hand, and he’s been on the podium here before. With form building and motivation high, Van Aert can’t be written off. He may not start as the sole leader, but he remains one of the most dangerous riders in the peloton.
For Van Aert, Sunday offers a chance at redemption and perhaps a reminder to everyone — including his own team — that when he’s at his best, he’s still one of the greatest Classics riders in the world.