The “Holy Week” of cycling, a revered period in the sport, encompasses two of the most prestigious one-day races: the Tour of Flanders and Paris-Roubaix. For riders like Wout van Aert and his coach, Grischa Niermann, this week represents the pinnacle of their season, a culmination of meticulous preparation and unwavering ambition.
Wout van Aert, a Belgian cyclist renowned for his versatility across disciplines, has long aspired to triumph in these monumental races. His journey, however, has been fraught with challenges. In March 2024, during Dwars door Vlaanderen—a key preparatory race for the classics—Van Aert suffered a severe crash that resulted in multiple fractures, including a broken collarbone and ribs. This unfortunate incident forced him to miss both the Tour of Flanders and Paris-Roubaix that year, deferring his dreams for another season.
Despite these setbacks, Van Aert’s resolve remains unshaken. His coach, Grischa Niermann, has been instrumental in guiding his recovery and strategizing his return to peak form. Niermann emphasizes the importance of patience and structured training, ensuring that Van Aert rebuilds his strength and endurance methodically. Their shared goal is not merely participation but victory in the revered cobbled classics.
The significance of the Holy Week in cycling cannot be overstated. The Tour of Flanders, with its treacherous cobbled climbs and fervent local support, is a race that every Belgian cyclist dreams of winning. Paris-Roubaix, known as the “Hell of the North,” challenges riders with its brutal pavé sectors and unpredictable weather conditions. Success in these races cements a rider’s legacy and holds profound national pride, especially for Belgians like Van Aert.
The 2025 season presents a renewed opportunity for Van Aert and Niermann. With a focus on strategic race selection and targeted training, they aim to peak precisely during the Holy Week. Their preparation includes participating in select cyclocross events to sharpen technical skills and build race fitness. Notably, Van Aert confirmed his participation in the UCI Cyclocross World Cup in Benidorm on January 19, 2025, marking his only competition outside Belgium for the winter season.
The anticipation surrounding Van Aert’s return to the cobbled classics is palpable among fans and analysts alike. His rivalry with riders like Mathieu van der Poel adds an extra layer of excitement, as their duels have historically electrified the cycling world. Van Aert’s recent performances in cyclocross, including a commendable fourth-place finish in Loenhout after a prolonged absence, indicate a promising trajectory towards regaining top form.
In conclusion, the Holy Week of cycling stands as a testament to the sport’s rich heritage and the enduring allure of its most challenging races. For Wout van Aert and Grischa Niermann, it embodies the ultimate objective—a chance to etch their names into cycling history through resilience, meticulous preparation, and an unwavering pursuit of excellence.
