Wout van Aert has officially confirmed that he will return to cyclocross earlier than many expected, declaring that after the conclusion of his road season he intends to line up once again in the field where his career first exploded into global recognition. The Belgian star, known for his versatility and dominance across multiple disciplines, has been balancing his ambitions on the road with his deep-rooted love for cyclocross, and this announcement has generated a wave of excitement among fans who have been eager to see him back in the mud, sand, and snow.
Van Aert, who has spent the past several months focused on major road goals, acknowledged that the decision was not an easy one. Balancing recovery, family time, and training demands with an intense race schedule is a constant challenge for an all-rounder of his caliber. Yet, he made it clear that cyclocross is still part of who he is as a rider. “I will ride cyclocross,” he stated with conviction, ending weeks of speculation about whether or not he would appear this winter.
The announcement carries weight not only because of Van Aert’s popularity, but also because of his long-standing rivalry with Mathieu van der Poel. Whenever the two clash in cyclocross, the sport reaches a level of intensity and attention that few other disciplines can match. Fans are already looking ahead to potential head-to-head battles, knowing that each encounter between them has the potential to become an instant classic.
For Van Aert personally, the return to cyclocross represents more than just racing. It is about reconnecting with his roots, sharpening his technical skills, and embracing the physical and mental challenge of the discipline. While many road specialists avoid cross during the off-season to preserve energy, Van Aert has always found value in competing across disciplines, crediting cyclocross for his explosiveness, bike-handling skills, and mental resilience.
Team Jumbo–Visma has reportedly supported his choice, with staff noting that the program will be carefully managed to avoid burnout and ensure he can still perform at the highest level on the road in 2026. That balance will be key, as Van Aert continues to chase victories in both one-day classics and stage races while also satisfying his passion for the cross circuit.
The news has been greeted with enthusiasm across Belgium, where cyclocross remains a national obsession. Local fans, who have followed Van Aert since his early days on muddy courses, are particularly thrilled to see him recommit to a discipline that has brought them so many unforgettable memories. In the words of one supporter, “When Wout is on the start line, the whole country watches.”
As the calendar approaches the start of the cyclocross season, anticipation is building. While it remains to be seen exactly which races Van Aert will target, his return ensures that the winter months will once again be filled with the drama, intensity, and brilliance that only riders of his caliber can provide. For cycling enthusiasts worldwide, his announcement is not just news—it is a promise of spectacle, rivalry, and the continuation of a story that has defined an era in the sport.
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