Van Aert's emotional return to the scene of his devastating crash

Wout van Aert, the Belgian cycling star, recently returned to the site of his horrific crash during last year's Dwars door Vlaanderen. The crash, which occurred on the N48 (Ninoofsesteenweg) leading to the Kanarieberg, brought a premature end to his Classics season, leaving him with a broken collarbone and ribs. The emotional significance of this return was palpable, as Van Aert and his Visma-Lease a Bike teammates undertook a 97km recon ride, retracing the very roads where the accident happened.

The ride, starting and finishing in Oudenaarde—the finish location of the Tour of Flanders—took the team through iconic Flemish climbs such as the Wolvenberg, Molenberg, Valkenberg, Oude Kwaremont, and Paterberg. Van Aert himself described the route on Strava as "The everything-that-is-beautiful route," a phrase that stands in stark contrast to the pain he experienced at that very spot a year ago.

A Team Effort: Solidarity and Preparation

Van Aert wasn't alone on this poignant journey. He was accompanied by several key teammates, including Matteo Jorgenson and Tiesj Benoot—both of whom were also involved in the Dwars door Vlaanderen race where the initial crash occurred. Their presence speaks volumes about the team's unity and support for Van Aert's recovery. Other riders present included Olav Kooij, Christophe Laporte, Dylan van Baarle, Per Strand Hagenes, and several promising new signings: Loe van Belle, Matthews Brennan, Menno Huising, and under-23 world champion Niklas Behrens.

The ride served not only as a personal challenge for Van Aert but also as valuable preparation for the upcoming 2025 Classics season. The team's recon mission allowed them to assess the condition of the roads, analyze potential race strategies, and undoubtedly helped Van Aert to confront his past trauma in a controlled environment. The experience, albeit challenging, likely aided his mental preparation for the rigors of next year's races.

Facing the Past, Embracing the Future

It wasn't just a training ride; it was a symbolic act of resilience. The presence of Van Aert on the very stretch of road where his Classics campaign ended so abruptly is a testament to his determination and unwavering commitment to the sport. It's a statement to his refusal to let the accident define his career, showcasing instead the extraordinary mental fortitude it takes to face past traumas. The ride was a visual representation of his journey toward healing and his renewed focus on the upcoming challenges.

The 2025 Classics: A New Beginning

Van Aert's participation in this recon ride marks a significant turning point. While the weather conditions mirrored the rainy day of his crash, the atmosphere is clearly different. This year, it’s a proactive approach to preparation, not a scene of injury and anguish. He described the team's recon ride as a 'Kick off' to the 2025 Classics. Van Aert's sights are set on redemption, aiming for victory in the Tour of Flanders and Paris-Roubaix – races where he has previously finished as runner-up. The 2025 season presents a fresh opportunity for him to solidify his place as one of cycling's all-time greats.

Overcoming Adversity: A Cyclist's Resilience

Van Aert's career has not been without its share of setbacks. Last season was marked by misfortune, with a return from injury only a month before the Tour de France affecting his performance. He subsequently suffered another setback, a knee injury incurred in a later crash, ruling him out of the World Championships and keeping him out of cyclocross until next year. This knee injury still bothers him. It is understandable given this history, that this return to the scene of the crash holds immense significance. Yet, Van Aert persists, his determination to conquer the challenges that lay ahead is evident. His coach stated last year that he only engages in cyclocross to benefit his road cycling career, highlighting his laser focus on excelling in the Classics and Tour de France. Could 2025 finally be his year to win De Ronde?

The ride, far from being merely a training exercise, represents a profound personal journey of resilience and unwavering focus on the future. It underscores Van Aert's strength of character and his dedication to the sport. The recon of the Flandrian hills serves as a powerful symbol of his determination to overcome adversity and achieve his goals. His journey serves as inspiration to aspiring athletes everywhere, demonstrating that setbacks are not insurmountable obstacles, but opportunities for growth and eventual triumph.

The 2025 Classics season promises to be an exciting one, and Wout van Aert is undoubtedly a rider to watch. His preparation, mental and physical, will ensure he is ready to challenge for top honours. The outcome remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: his resilience is undeniable. The success of his season and his future career, are in his own hands. He is determined to make next year's season an unforgettable success story.