CONFIRMED: Wout van Aert Will Depart from WorldTeam Visma After 2025 Season
In a move that marks the end of an era, Wout van Aert has officially confirmed that he will leave Team Visma | Lease a Bike at the conclusion of the 2025 season. The Belgian star, known for his unmatched versatility across classics, stage races, time trials, and cyclo-cross, has been a cornerstone of the team’s success for nearly a decade.
The announcement was made this morning via a joint statement from van Aert and Team Visma, confirming months of speculation about his long-term future.
“After many unforgettable years, I’ve decided that the 2025 season will be my final one with Visma,” van Aert said. “This team has been my home, my family, and the foundation of my career. But I believe it’s time for a new chapter — one that challenges me in different ways and allows me to explore new goals.”
Van Aert joined the team in 2019 and quickly became one of the sport’s most complete and influential riders. From storming victories in Milan–San Remo, Strade Bianche, and Gent–Wevelgem to breathtaking performances at the Tour de France and World Championships, his impact was both immediate and lasting.
Team Visma’s General Manager Richard Plugge expressed both sadness and gratitude:
“Wout has been central to our evolution as a team. His power, professionalism, and charisma helped elevate Visma to one of the world’s best outfits. While we’re sad to see him go, we fully support his decision and thank him for everything.”
As for his next destination, van Aert has remained tight-lipped, though rumors continue to swirl about interest from INEOS Grenadiers, Alpecin-Deceuninck, and even a potential switch in focus to full-time cyclo-cross or gravel racing.
Van Aert is expected to race a full calendar in 2025, including the Spring Classics, Tour de France, and World Championships — all of which could serve as a farewell tour of sorts.
Fans and fellow riders have flooded social media with tributes and messages of support, calling him a “once-in-a-generation athlete” and applauding his decision to take control of his next steps.
Whatever lies ahead, one thing is certain: Wout van Aert’s departure will leave a massive void in Visma — and the peloton — when the 2025 season comes to a close.
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