Wout Van Aert, one of the most versatile cyclists in the modern peloton, has extended his contract with Jumbo-Visma, solidifying his commitment to the team until 2026. The Belgian superstar, an essential figure in the team’s recent successes, recently opened up about his decision to remain with Jumbo-Visma, despite rumoured interest from several other top teams. In a candid interview, Van Aert shared the emotional and strategic considerations influencing his choice to stay with the Dutch powerhouse.
Van Aert’s contract extension is a significant move in the cycling world, especially given his stature as one of the sport’s most sought-after talents. With his ability to win in the classics, compete in grand tours, and excel in time trials, he has attracted attention from rival teams looking to bolster their rosters. However, Van Aert made it clear that his decision to remain with Jumbo-Visma was not just about the money but about loyalty, team culture, and the opportunities for continued growth.
Building a Legacy with Jumbo-Visma
Wout Van Aert has been with Jumbo-Visma since 2019, and in that time, he has become synonymous with the team’s success. His contributions to the team’s dominant performances in classics, stage races, and Grand Tours have been nothing short of extraordinary. For Van Aert, extending his contract was not just about continuing to race; it was about building something meaningful with a team that has become his second family.
“When I first joined Jumbo-Visma, I felt like I had found a team that truly understood me as a rider and as a person,” Van Aert said in his interview. “Over the years, we’ve developed a special relationship built on mutual respect, trust, and shared ambitions. That’s something you don’t find everywhere, and it’s a big reason why I wanted to stay.”
Van Aert’s bond with Jumbo-Visma has grown deeper with each passing season. Together, they have achieved milestones such as winning stages at the Tour de France, claiming victories in prestigious one-day races like Milan-San Remo, Gent-Wevelgem, and Amstel Gold Race, and supporting Primož Roglič and Jonas Vingegaard in their Grand Tour campaigns. These successes have cemented Van Aert’s role as a leader within the team, and his continued presence is seen as crucial to Jumbo-Visma’s plans.
“This is more than just a contract extension,” Van Aert explained. “It’s about continuing a journey that we started together, and I believe there is still so much we can achieve. I want to help this team reach new heights and am excited to be a part of that.”
The Jumbo-Visma Team Culture: A Perfect Fit
One of the key factors that influenced Van Aert’s decision to stay was the unique team culture at Jumbo-Visma. The Belgian rider emphasised how much he values the supportive and collaborative atmosphere within the squad, where the focus is not only on individual success but also on the team’s collective goals.
“Jumbo-Visma has a culture that encourages growth, not just as an athlete but as a person. From the management to the riders, everyone is working towards the same goal, and we all support each other,” Van Aert said. “That’s not something you can easily replicate elsewhere. It’s a big part of why I feel so at home here.”
The team’s dynamic is one where the riders are encouraged to push their limits while also supporting each other in pursuit of bigger objectives. This sense of unity has helped Jumbo-Visma become one of the dominant forces in professional cycling, and Van Aert’s leadership has been central to this rise. He highlighted the team’s shared commitment to excellence and their willingness to invest in long-term goals as another key factor in his decision.
“I’ve seen firsthand how dedicated everyone at Jumbo-Visma is to being the best, and that drive is contagious,” Van Aert said. “We all want to win, but we’re also willing to put in the work to make it happen. That’s the kind of environment where I thrive.”
The Role of Family and Stability
Van Aert also spoke about the importance of stability in his decision to extend his contract. For the 29-year-old rider, balancing the demands of professional cycling with his personal life has become increasingly important, especially since becoming a father. Staying with Jumbo-Visma offered him the opportunity to maintain that balance, thanks to the team’s understanding of his family commitments.
“My family is incredibly important to me, and Jumbo-Visma has always been supportive of that,” Van Aert shared. “They understand that I’m not just a cyclist; I’m also a husband and a father. That level of understanding is rare, and it’s something that made my decision much easier.”
He added that having a stable environment where he can focus on both his career and his family life was crucial in his long-term planning. By extending his contract, Van Aert is securing not just his future in the sport but also providing a sense of security for his family, something that he values highly.
“The team has been there for me through some of the biggest moments in my life, both on and off the bike. That kind of support means a lot, and I’m grateful for it,” Van Aert said.
A Desire for Continued Growth and Success
Wout Van Aert is known for his versatility and hunger for success. His ability to shine in various types of races, from cobbled classics to mountainous stages, has made him one of the most dynamic riders in the peloton. But despite his numerous accomplishments, Van Aert remains hungry for more. He believes that staying with Jumbo-Visma offers him the best opportunity to continue growing as a rider and achieve his long-term goals.
“I’ve accomplished a lot with this team, but I still feel like there’s so much more I can do,” Van Aert said. “Whether it’s winning more monuments, fighting for the green jersey at the Tour, or helping the team win another Grand Tour, I’m excited about what the future holds.”
Van Aert’s ambitions align perfectly with Jumbo-Visma’s plans for the future. The team has established itself as one of the top contenders in all major races, and with Van Aert’s continued presence, they are poised to remain a dominant force in the cycling world. His versatility makes him an invaluable asset, capable of both personal victories and playing a crucial support role for his teammates.
“Every year, I set new goals for myself, and I know that Jumbo-Visma will give me the tools and the support I need to reach them,” Van Aert explained. “We’ve already achieved so much together, but I believe the best is yet to come.”
Reflecting on the Decision
In the competitive world of professional cycling, where top riders are often lured by lucrative offers from rival teams, Wout Van Aert’s decision to stay with Jumbo-Visma is a testament to the strong relationship he has built with the team. While there were undoubtedly offers on the table from other squads, Van Aert made it clear that his choice was not solely about financial gain.
“I had options, but in the end, it wasn’t a hard decision for me. Jumbo-Visma feels like home, and that’s where I want to be,” Van Aert said. “I’m excited for the next chapter with this team, and I’m confident that we’ll continue to achieve great things together.”
As Van Aert looks ahead to the 2024 season and beyond, his decision to extend his contract with Jumbo-Visma signals his unwavering belief in the team’s vision and his commitment to building a legacy alongside his teammates. For fans of the Belgian superstar, his continued presence with Jumbo-Visma means more thrilling performances and the prospect of further triumphs in the years to come.
In the end, Wout Van Aert’s choice to remain with Jumbo-Visma is about more than just racing; it’s about loyalty, family, and the desire to be part of something bigger than himself—a team that shares his passion for the sport and his ambition for greatness.