Wuyts Writes Off Van Aert in Battle Against Van der Poel: “A Painful Conclusion for the Fans”…

Wuyts Writes Off Van Aert in Battle Against Van der Poel: “A Painful Conclusion for the Fans”…

 

Belgian cycling commentator Michel Wuyts has sparked debate once again after offering a blunt assessment of Wout van Aert’s ongoing rivalry with Mathieu van der Poel, suggesting that the Jumbo-Visma rider may never reach the same heights as his longtime Dutch rival. In a recent interview with Het Laatste Nieuws, Wuyts acknowledged the immense talent of both riders but concluded that Van der Poel has definitively pulled ahead in their years-long duel — a verdict he called “painful for the fans, especially in Belgium.”

The rivalry between Van Aert and Van der Poel has defined modern cycling’s classics and cyclocross scenes, dating back to their youth careers. Both are multi-discipline stars and headline-makers in their own right. But as Wuyts notes, the head-to-head record increasingly leans in Van der Poel’s favor, particularly in major one-day races. The Dutchman’s wins in Milan–San Remo, Paris–Roubaix, and multiple Tour of Flanders titles have added weight to his legacy, while Van Aert’s near-misses and more modest monument tally have prompted questions about his place in the sport’s hierarchy.

“In the really big moments, Mathieu has that extra gear,” Wuyts said. “Wout is an exceptional athlete, incredibly consistent, and a team player. But he has often been the strongest rider without being the winner. That difference — being able to turn strength into victory — is what separates them.”

Wuyts’ remarks come just weeks after Van Aert returned to racing following a devastating crash during Dwars door Vlaanderen, where he sustained multiple fractures. His recovery is still ongoing, and his racing schedule remains uncertain, though he has expressed hope to compete at the Olympics. While some have urged patience, Wuyts argues that the gap between Van Aert and Van der Poel is now more than just physical — it’s psychological.

“There’s a mental toll to losing the big ones again and again, especially to the same rival,” Wuyts added. “It’s not that Van Aert lacks desire or talent. But perhaps he lacks the killer instinct Van der Poel has — the raw, fearless ability to seize the race when it matters most.”

The comments have divided fans. Belgian supporters, fiercely loyal to Van Aert, were quick to defend their star, pointing to his versatility, green jersey at the Tour de France, and numerous WorldTour victories. Others, however, acknowledged Wuyts’ point, noting Van Aert’s struggles to convert dominant performances into monument wins.

Van Aert himself has not responded directly to Wuyts’ remarks, but he has previously downplayed talk of rivalry, emphasizing respect over rivalry when speaking about Van der Poel. “We push each other to be better,” he said in a 2024 interview. “If he wins, I don’t feel defeated — I feel motivated.”

As Van der Poel returns to racing at the Critérium du Dauphiné and eyes further glory at the Tour de France and Paris Olympics, the debate around Van Aert’s place in cycling’s pantheon is likely to intensify. Whether or not Wuyts’ verdict holds in the long run, the rivalry — even if uneven — remains one of the sport’s most compelling stories.