Paul Herygers, former cyclocross world champion and current analyst, has spoken out about Wout van Aert’s chances in cyclocross and his participation in the World Cup. He emphasizes that Van Aert has shifted his priorities to road races and that cyclo-cross is no longer his main goal.
Herygers states that Van Aert has nothing left to prove in the field and that it is time for him to think about himself. He praises Van Aert for his decision to be selective in his cyclocross program and to focus on the spring classics.
In December 2024, Van Aert made his return to cyclocross with a limited program of six crosses. Herygers was pleased with this choice and considered it a well-considered decision. He emphasized that Van Aert, after his injury and rehabilitation, is wise not to take on too much and to concentrate on his goals on the road.
Regarding Van Aert’s possible participation in the Cyclo-Cross World Championships, Herygers is clear. He believes that Van Aert has no obligation to participate and that his focus is on the road. Herygers suggests that Van Aert should only consider returning to the cyclo-cross World Championships in exceptional circumstances, for example if his ambitions on the road are not realized.
Herygers emphasizes that Van Aert has to make his own choices and that he respects his decision to skip the Cyclo-cross World Championships. He points out that Van Aert has worked hard to get back to his level after his injury and that he should now be given the opportunity to fully focus on his goals on the road.
In previous analyses, Herygers has also indicated that Van Aert’s defeat at the cyclo-cross World Championships last year may have contributed to his decision to retire.
