Wout van Aert secured a momentous victory on Stage 10 of the 2024 Vuelta a España, making it his third career stage win at the prestigious Grand Tour. While the Belgian powerhouse has delivered numerous stellar performances throughout his career, this particular triumph held extra significance—his family was there to witness it.
In a post-race interview, an emotional Van Aert expressed how meaningful the victory was for him, especially since his loved ones were present. “It’s not too often that I can win when my family visits me,” Van Aert said with a smile. “Having them here makes this win even more special. Their support is what keeps me going, and to share this moment with them is something I will never forget.”
Stage 10 was designed for the sprinters, a mostly flat route with some technical sections, perfect for Van Aert’s explosive abilities. The Belgian rider, who thrives in versatile conditions, had marked this stage as one where he could truly showcase his strength. Coming off a tough opening week filled with mountains and breakaway attempts, Van Aert was eager to capitalize on the flatter terrain and repay the faith his Jumbo-Visma team had shown in him.
The final kilometers saw an intense battle between the sprinters, with several top contenders jostling for position. Van Aert, however, timed his sprint to perfection, powering past rivals in the closing meters to claim the victory. His celebration across the finish line reflected the sheer joy of the win, made even sweeter by the presence of his wife, Sarah de Bie, and their young son.
Throughout his career, Van Aert has often spoken about the role his family plays in keeping him grounded and motivated, and this win was no exception. Balancing the intense demands of professional cycling with family life is no easy feat, but for Van Aert, it’s his family that gives him the strength to perform at the highest level.
“Having Sarah and our son here means everything to me,” Van Aert said. “It’s a huge motivation. When you’re on the road for so long, missing your family, having them visit and share this moment with you is what makes all the hard work worth it.”
The 2024 Vuelta a España has been a long, grueling test of endurance, but Van Aert’s victory on Stage 10 was a reminder of his versatility and sheer determination. After several challenging stages in the mountains, where the spotlight was on the climbers and GC contenders, the sprinter-friendly stage provided Van Aert the perfect platform to shine.
The win on Stage 10 marked Van Aert’s third career stage victory at the Vuelta a España, an impressive feat that solidifies his reputation as one of the most well-rounded riders in the peloton. Whether it’s the cobblestones of the Spring Classics, time trials, or sprint stages like this one, Van Aert continues to prove he can compete with the best in nearly every discipline.
“This win is up there with my favorites,” Van Aert said, reflecting on his career. “The Vuelta has always been a race where I’ve had success, but today was special. The emotions, the crowd, my family—it all came together perfectly.”
Van Aert’s Jumbo-Visma team also played a crucial role in setting him up for victory. The team worked hard throughout the stage to control the pace, neutralizing breakaway attempts and delivering Van Aert in the perfect position for the sprint finish. Their efforts were not lost on the Belgian rider, who was quick to praise his teammates.
“I couldn’t have done this without the guys,” Van Aert said. “They worked tirelessly to make sure I was in the right spot, and I’m really thankful for their support. It’s a team victory, just as much as it’s my own.”
For Van Aert, winning is always special, but winning with his family in attendance takes it to another level. With a busy racing schedule that keeps him away from home for much of the year, moments like these remind him why he sacrifices so much.
“When you win with your family watching, it’s different,” Van Aert explained. “It makes everything more emotional. I don’t get to see them as often as I’d like during the season, so when they’re here, and I can win for them, it’s something I’ll remember for the rest of my life.”
With another Vuelta stage win in the bag, Van Aert remains a key figure in the 2024 edition of the race. While his primary role might not be targeting the overall classification, his contributions as a versatile rider and a potential stage winner continue to make him a threat on any given day.
As the race progresses into the more challenging terrain of the third week, Van Aert’s focus will shift back to supporting his team’s GC ambitions while also keeping an eye on any potential opportunities for another stage win. For now, though, the Belgian rider can savor the special moment shared with his family, a victory that means more than just a place on the podium.
“This is what cycling is all about,” Van Aert concluded. “It’s not just about winning races; it’s about sharing these moments with the people you love. Today was one of those days I’ll cherish forever.”
Wout van Aert’s Stage 10 victory at the 2024 Vuelta a España will be remembered not just for the thrilling sprint finish but for the heartwarming story behind it. Winning in front of his family was the culmination of both his hard work and their unwavering support. As the Vuelta continues, Van Aert will carry this motivation forward, proving once again that family and cycling success are intertwined in his remarkable career.
