Wout van Aert Reveals Why He’ll Stay with Jumbo-Visma for the Rest of His Career: “This Team Feels Like Home”
Wout van Aert, one of the most celebrated cyclists of his generation, has made a monumental decision to remain with Jumbo-Visma until the end of his career. In an era where top athletes often move between teams, seeking the next big opportunity or a better contract, van Aert’s commitment to stay loyal to the Dutch squad reflects his deep personal and professional connection with Jumbo-Visma. His decision also reveals the unique bond between a rider and a team that has been instrumental in shaping his career.
In a recent interview, van Aert shared the reasons behind his choice to stay with Jumbo-Visma, a decision that was not made lightly but rather after a long period of reflection. He spoke passionately about what the team means to him and why, despite numerous offers from other teams, he feels that Jumbo-Visma is where he truly belongs.
A Team Built on Trust and Growth
Since joining Jumbo-Visma in 2019, van Aert has experienced tremendous growth, both as an individual rider and as part of a collective force. Under the guidance of the team’s management and coaching staff, he has transformed into one of the most versatile cyclists in the world. From dominating in the Spring Classics to playing a key role in Grand Tours, van Aert has become synonymous with success.
“When I first joined Jumbo-Visma, I was already a good rider, but they took me to the next level. It’s not just about the races or the results, it’s about the environment they’ve created here. The team believes in me, and I trust them fully. They’ve helped me become the rider I am today,” van Aert explained.
One of the key factors in van Aert’s decision to stay with Jumbo-Visma is the culture of trust and mutual respect that exists within the team. Unlike other teams where riders may feel pressure to constantly prove themselves, van Aert describes Jumbo-Visma as a place where athletes are given the space to grow and develop at their own pace. The team’s focus on long-term development, rather than short-term gains, aligns perfectly with van Aert’s own philosophy on how to approach his career.
“They’ve always given me the freedom to be myself and to take on the challenges that matter most to me. Whether it’s focusing on the Classics or helping the team in the Tour de France, I’ve always had the support of everyone here. That’s something you can’t find just anywhere,” he said.
The Role of Relationships
Beyond the professional success he has achieved with Jumbo-Visma, van Aert emphasized the importance of the relationships he has built within the team. Over the years, he has formed close bonds with his teammates, coaches, and support staff, all of whom have played a vital role in his journey.
“I’ve made lifelong friends here. When you spend so much time together, traveling, training, and racing, you form a special connection. It’s more than just a team; it’s a family. I can’t imagine riding for another team and not having these people by my side,” van Aert said with sincerity.
One of the most significant relationships van Aert has is with his teammate and fellow star, Primož Roglič. The two have worked together in some of the most important races of their careers, including the Tour de France, where van Aert’s support has been instrumental in Roglič’s success. Their partnership, built on mutual respect and shared goals, is a testament to the strength of Jumbo-Visma as a team.
Van Aert also highlighted his connection with the team’s management, including general manager Richard Plugge and head coach Grischa Niermann. He praised their leadership and vision for the future, expressing his confidence that they will continue to steer the team toward even greater success in the years to come.
“I have so much respect for Richard and Grischa. They understand what it takes to build a winning team, but more importantly, they know how to create an environment where riders can thrive. Their leadership has been a big part of why I feel so at home here,” he added.
Personal Growth and Stability
For van Aert, staying with Jumbo-Visma also provides a sense of stability that is crucial for both his personal and professional life. At 29 years old, he is entering the prime of his career, and while many riders at this stage might be tempted to explore new opportunities, van Aert sees stability as a key factor in reaching his full potential.
“My wife Sarah and I have a young family, and having that stability is important for us. We’ve built a life around the team, and it feels right to continue this journey together. I know that with Jumbo-Visma, I’ll be able to perform at my best, and at the same time, I’ll have the support I need to balance my personal life,” van Aert explained.
Being part of a team that understands the importance of family and work-life balance has been a significant factor in van Aert’s decision to stay. He often speaks about how important it is to him to be a present father to his son Georges, and the flexibility and understanding he receives from the team have made it easier for him to manage his dual responsibilities as an athlete and a parent.
“I’ve always been someone who values my family above all else, and Jumbo-Visma respects that. They understand that we’re not just cyclists; we’re people with lives outside of the sport. That balance is important, and I appreciate that they make it a priority,” he said.
Looking Toward the Future
As van Aert looks ahead to the next phase of his career, he is excited about the possibilities that lie ahead. With Jumbo-Visma, he has already achieved incredible success, but he believes there is still so much more to accomplish. From targeting victories in the biggest Classics to playing a key role in future Grand Tours, van Aert is motivated to continue pushing his limits and chasing new goals.
One of his primary focuses moving forward will be the Spring Classics, where he has already established himself as a dominant force. With multiple victories in races like Strade Bianche and Milan-San Remo, van Aert has proven himself to be one of the best one-day racers in the world. However, he is still hungry for more, particularly when it comes to the Tour of Flanders and Paris-Roubaix, two races that hold a special place in his heart.
“I’ve had some great moments in the Classics, but there are still a few that I dream of winning. Flanders and Roubaix are races that every rider wants to win, and I feel like I still have unfinished business there. With Jumbo-Visma, I know I have the team and the support to go after those victories,” van Aert said with determination.
In addition to the Classics, van Aert remains committed to supporting his team in the Grand Tours, particularly the Tour de France. His versatility as a rider, capable of winning sprints, time trials, and mountain stages, makes him an invaluable asset to the team’s overall strategy. Whether helping a teammate like Roglič or Jonas Vingegaard in the general classification or going for individual stage wins, van Aert is ready to continue making his mark in cycling’s biggest races.
A Legacy of Loyalty
In a sport where contracts and team changes are common, van Aert’s decision to stay with Jumbo-Visma for the remainder of his career is a rare and remarkable show of loyalty. His commitment speaks to the deep bond he has with the team, a bond that goes beyond mere professional success. For van Aert, it’s about being part of something bigger—being part of a team that believes in him, supports him, and allows him to grow both as a cyclist and as a person.
As he continues to build on his already impressive legacy, van Aert is determined to repay the trust that Jumbo-Visma has placed in him. He knows that together, they can achieve even greater things, and he is excited about what the future holds.
“I’m proud to wear the Jumbo-Visma jersey, and I’m excited about the journey we still have ahead. This team has given me everything, and I want to give them everything in return. There’s nowhere else I’d rather be,” van Aert concluded.
With his decision to remain with Jumbo-Visma, Wout van Aert has solidified his place not only as one of the best cyclists of his generation but also as a true team player who values loyalty, trust, and personal growth. The future is bright for both van Aert and Jumbo-Visma, and together, they will continue to leave an indelible mark on the world of cycling.
