Wout van Aert, one of Belgium’s most successful cyclists, has spent his career conquering challenges on the bike, from winning stages at the Tour de France to dominating in cyclocross. However, amid all the victories and accolades, one of the most powerful moments of his life happened off the bike when he held his second son, Jerome, for the first time.
In an intimate conversation, van Aert opened up about the emotions he experienced during that unforgettable moment when his second child was born in early 2024. “The moment I first held Jerome in my arms was incredible,” the 29-year-old cyclist shared. “You think you’re prepared for it, but when it actually happens, it’s like nothing else matters in the world. All of a sudden, there’s just this little person in your hands, and everything else fades away.”
Jerome’s birth came a little over two years after the arrival of van Aert’s first son, Georges. As a father, van Aert knew how life-changing this moment would be. Holding his second child in his hands brought a mix of emotions, from immense joy to deep responsibility. “It’s a mixture of love and awe,” van Aert explained. “There’s this overwhelming feeling that you’re going to do everything to protect and care for them. You realize just how important these moments are.”
The arrival of Jerome was particularly special for the cycling champion because of the deep connection he feels to his family. “When I saw my wife, Sarah, holding Jerome, it was a reminder of how much she has given in bringing our children into this world. And then seeing Georges, our older son, interact with Jerome – that’s what makes it all so worth it,” van Aert said.
Despite the demanding nature of his career, which often takes him away from home, Wout van Aert expressed how the birth of his second son helped him find a greater sense of balance. “Having a family gives you perspective. Cycling is my passion, but when I come home, it’s all about my family. The moments I share with them make everything else feel secondary,” he added.
Van Aert’s reflection on the birth of Jerome highlights how fatherhood has profoundly changed his outlook on life. “It’s hard to describe, but becoming a father again has made me even more aware of the preciousness of time,” he said. “It’s a reminder of what truly matters and gives me more motivation to keep pushing in my career.”
The first moment Wout van Aert held his second son, Jerome, marked a milestone in his life, one that reaffirms the importance of family and the pure joy that comes with the arrival of a child. As he continues to chase cycling victories, the love and inspiration from his family remain his greatest driving force, reminding him of the simple yet powerful moments that make life so special.
