In a landmark announcement that has captured global attention, Belgian cycling sensation Wout van Aert has signed a record-breaking $120 million contract with a new team ahead of the 2026 season — and in a bold act of generosity, he has pledged to donate half of that amount to international charitable causes.
The 30-year-old all-rounder, known for his dominance across road, cyclocross, and time trial disciplines, made the revelation during an emotional press conference in Antwerp. Flanked by representatives from his current team, family members, and humanitarian partners, Van Aert expressed his desire to make a lasting impact both in and beyond cycling.
“This sport has given me everything — success, support, a platform,” Van Aert said. “But if I’m going to keep pushing forward, I want it to mean something more. I’m not just signing a deal — I’m making a commitment to people who need help.”
The $120 million agreement, one of the most lucrative contracts in the history of professional cycling, is said to include sponsorship bonuses, media partnerships, and performance incentives. While the name of the team has not been officially disclosed, sources close to the negotiations suggest Van Aert will be joining a newly restructured multinational outfit with ambitions across all major tours and disciplines.
Van Aert’s philanthropic pledge has already taken shape in the form of the WVA Global Fund, a charity initiative aimed at supporting clean water access, youth development through sports, global health programs, and climate resilience projects. The fund, launching with an initial $60 million infusion from Van Aert’s own earnings, is expected to partner with major organizations such as Médecins Sans Frontières, Save the Children, Red Cross International, and Cycling Without Borders.
“I’ve seen suffering up close during off-season trips. Entire communities without food, children without safe homes, athletes with dreams but no equipment,” Van Aert said. “It’s time I gave something back.”
Reactions across the sporting world have been swift and celebratory. Fellow cyclists, team managers, politicians, and fans have applauded Van Aert’s move as a beacon of hope and an example of how sports figures can lead real change.
Long-time rival and friend Mathieu van der Poel shared his support on social media:
“Incredible gesture by Wout. He’s not just a great rider — he’s a great man. Much respect.”
Cycling legends like Eddy Merckx and Greg LeMond have also weighed in, calling Van Aert’s act “transformative” and “the kind of leadership cycling needs in this era.”
Beyond the financial impact, Van Aert’s decision is already reshaping conversations around athlete responsibility and legacy. Several high-profile athletes in other sports have expressed interest in joining the WVA Global Fund’s mission or launching similar initiatives within their own disciplines.
As for his racing career, Van Aert made it clear that he has no plans to slow down.
“I’m still hungry. I want to win more — monuments, stages, championships. But now I ride with a bigger purpose. I ride knowing that every sprint, every pedal stroke is powering change far beyond the finish line.”
With this powerful combination of performance and purpose, Wout van Aert has redefined what it means to be a champion in the modern era — not just by crossing the line first, but by lifting others as he goes.
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