In a moment that left the cycling world stunned, Wout van Aert delivered a raw and emotional statement following Stage 18 of the 2025 Tour de France, expressing deep doubts about his place in the sport after a grueling and disappointing performance.
Visibly drained and uncharacteristically quiet at the finish line, van Aert took a few moments before facing the media. When he did, his words cut through the post-race chatter like a thunderclap:
“I’m not sure I belong anymore,” he said. “I’ve given everything, but something feels off. It’s like I’m chasing a version of myself that no longer exists.”
The confession sent shockwaves through the cycling community. Van Aert, long celebrated as one of the sport’s most complete riders—equally dominant in sprints, time trials, and mountain stages—has faced a turbulent 2025 season marked by inconsistency, crashes, and relentless pressure.
While he’s had flashes of brilliance throughout the Tour, including a top-five finish in Stage 9 and a powerful performance in the team time trial, the Belgian star has been largely overshadowed by the likes of Tadej Pogačar and Remco Evenepoel, who have dominated the headlines and GC battle.
This year’s Tour was meant to be a triumphant return for van Aert after an early-season injury sidelined him for weeks. Though his comeback was initially met with enthusiasm, it’s become clear that the physical and emotional toll has taken its effect.
In his post-stage remarks, van Aert acknowledged the immense expectations placed on him—not just by fans and his team, but by himself.
“I’ve always been proud to fight at the front, to win for the team, to be the guy who could do it all. But lately, I feel like I’m chasing ghosts. I’m asking myself why I’m here, and I don’t have a clear answer.”
Teammates and staff from Team Visma-Lease a Bike were quick to offer support, with sporting director Grischa Niermann describing Wout’s honesty as “the mark of a true champion—not just when he wins, but when he questions, when he reflects.”
Fans have responded with a mix of concern and support, flooding social media with messages of encouragement, gratitude, and respect. Many point to van Aert’s countless sacrifices for teammates and his fearless racing style as proof that he still belongs—regardless of results.
As the Tour nears its conclusion, questions now swirl about van Aert’s future—both immediate and long-term. Will he finish the race? Will he refocus on the Classics next spring? Could this be the beginning of a transition away from full-time stage racing?
For now, Wout van Aert remains on the start list for Stage 19. But the emotional weight of his words has added a new layer of complexity to what has already been a dramatic and unpredictable Tour.
One thing is certain: whether he’s sprinting for victory or soul-searching at the finish line, Wout van Aert continues to embody the raw, human side of elite cycling—and the world is still very much watching.
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