Van Aert Draws Harsh Conclusion After Failed Comeback in E3: “I Was Here to Achieve a …. read more 

Van Aert Draws Harsh Conclusion After Failed Comeback in E3: “I Was Here to Achieve a …. read more

 

Wout van Aert, one of cycling’s most celebrated stars, has voiced his disappointment after a failed comeback attempt at the 2025 E3 Saxo Bank Classic. The Belgian powerhouse, who had been sidelined due to an injury earlier this season, had hoped to make a strong statement in the prestigious race. However, his aspirations were dashed as he struggled to keep pace with the leading riders, ultimately finishing far outside contention.

 

The E3 Saxo Bank Classic, often considered a key warm-up for the Spring Classics, was the first major race for Van Aert after a period of recovery. Having suffered from an injury that kept him off the bike for weeks, the Belgian had been eager to show that he was back at his best. But despite being part of a strong Jumbo-Visma team, his performance in the race was far from what he had hoped for.

 

In an emotional post-race interview, Van Aert was forthright in his assessment of the day’s outcome. “I was here to achieve a good result,” he said, visibly frustrated by his inability to challenge the frontrunners. “It’s hard to accept, but at the same time, I can’t hide from the fact that I wasn’t at my best. I tried, but I didn’t have the legs today.”

 

The race, which is known for its punishing cobbled sections and sharp climbs, presented a tough challenge for Van Aert. Despite his reputation as one of the most versatile riders in the peloton, capable of excelling in both one-day races and stage races, the comeback didn’t go according to plan. Van Aert found himself distanced in the latter part of the race as the pace picked up, and despite several attempts to get back into contention, he ultimately had to settle for a lower finish.

 

The disappointment for Van Aert was palpable, not only because of his failure to meet his personal expectations but also due to the high hopes surrounding his return. His form had been eagerly anticipated, and many considered him one of the top contenders for victory at the E3 Classic. However, as the race unfolded, it became clear that his physical state was not yet at the level required to compete with the best.

 

“I came here with the goal of achieving a good result, but sometimes things don’t go the way you plan,” he continued. “I’m disappointed, but I know that this is part of the process. I have to keep working hard and find the rhythm again. It’s frustrating, but I won’t give up.”

 

The Belgian’s candid remarks reflect a sense of resolve despite the setback. Van Aert is known for his resilience, and this disappointment will likely serve as motivation for the next phase of his season. His team, Jumbo-Visma, expressed full support for the rider, understanding that comebacks from injury are rarely without hiccups.

 

Looking ahead, Van Aert remains determined to make an impact in the upcoming races, particularly in the iconic cobbled classics such as Paris-Roubaix and the Tour of Flanders, which are crucial to his season objectives. “The key is to keep improving,” Van Aert concluded. “I know I’m not where I want to be yet, but I’m going to keep pushing.”

 

While the E3 Saxo Bank Classic didn’t deliver the result he hoped for, Van Aert’s unwavering determination suggests that this setback may only serve to fuel his ambition for greater success in the months ahead. The cycling world will undoubtedly be watching his progress as he looks to bounce back from this challenging start to the 2025 season.