Wout van Aert, one of Belgium’s most successful and versatile cyclists, is known for his exceptional performances across a range of disciplines, including road racing, cyclocross, and gravel racing. From his remarkable victories in the Tour de France to his cyclocross World Championship titles, van Aert’s career has been one of triumph and perseverance. However, despite the pressures and challenges of being a world-class athlete, van Aert has recently taken a moment to reflect on his childhood, sharing the fondest memories that shaped him into the athlete and person he is today.
Born in Herentals, Belgium, van Aert grew up in a family that wasn’t directly involved in competitive cycling but had a strong love for sports. It was this love for physical activity that set the foundation for his future success in cycling. “I always had a passion for sports when I was a kid,” van Aert recalled. “I loved being outdoors, running around, and trying all kinds of activities. I was always active.”
Another cherished memory for van Aert was participating in local sporting events with his friends. Growing up, he wasn’t solely focused on cycling; he dabbled in other sports like football and running, often competing alongside his friends in various local events. “I used to compete in all kinds of races, from running to soccer matches. It was always about having fun and spending time with friends,” he said. These early competitions sparked his competitive nature and helped him develop a strong foundation for his future in cycling.
While cycling eventually became his primary focus, van Aert still cherishes the moments when he was simply a child enjoying the thrill of sport without the pressure of professional competition. He fondly remembers participating in his first cyclocross races, a discipline that would later become his true calling. “Cyclocross was something I really loved from the start,” van Aert explained. “There was something special about the challenge of racing through mud, obstacles, and all sorts of conditions. It made me feel alive.”
Despite his rapid rise to prominence in the world of professional cycling, van Aert’s childhood memories remind him of the importance of enjoying the journey, not just the destination. He recognizes that the joy of sport, the camaraderie with friends, and the family outings all played a pivotal role in shaping his approach to cycling. “I think the best memories from my childhood are those moments where I wasn’t thinking about being the best, but just enjoying being active, having fun, and making memories with the people I care about,” van Aert reflected.
Today, as one of the most well-rounded cyclists in the world, Wout van Aert continues to embrace the same sense of joy and adventure that he experienced as a child. While his career has reached incredible heights, his best childhood memories remind him to stay grounded and appreciate the simple pleasures that initially sparked his passion for sport.
