Wout van Aert has already played a key role in a Grand Tour this season, helping Simon Yates secure the Giro d’Italia title back in June. But his role in the upcoming 2025 Tour de France remains uncertain. In previous editions, Van Aert has managed to balance personal ambitions like chasing the Green Jersey and stage wins with critical support for Jonas Vingegaard’s overall title bids. His 2022 performance, in particular, was widely praised as one of the most impressive of the race.
More recently, however, Van Aert’s focus seems to have shifted further into the role of a super-domestique, with no stage victories in his last two Tour appearances. “Wout is the kind of rider who always puts the team first,” said Sep Vanmarcke on the Sporza Daily podcast. “But with his talent, you’ve got to give him a few chances to go for it. Letting him sprint here and there keeps his instincts sharp.” Vanmarcke believes that if Van Aert were racing solely for himself, he could win multiple stages early on. Yet, he also points out that Van Aert’s strength is crucial in protecting Vingegaard during decisive mountain finishes where seconds can be lost.
His co-host Maarten Vangramberen noted that for Team Visma | Lease a Bike, the yellow jersey is the absolute priority. “If Van Aert had total freedom, the Green Jersey would be within reach, and he’d likely bag several stages. But he’ll be tied down by team duties.” Vangramberen adds that Van Aert is such a versatile rider he’s almost two riders in one capable of launching attacks or protecting his leader. “You might see him get his chance here and there, maybe even go on the offensive with Vingegaard in tow. But with Affini, Benoot, and Campenaerts also on hand to manage the race, his freedom will be limited.”
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