JUST NOW:It’s a shame that I missed the shot’ – Wout van Aert forced to settle for ninth in Tour de France breakaway.read More.
JUST NOW: “It’s a Shame That I Missed the Shot” – Wout van Aert Forced to Settle for Ninth in Tour de France Breakaway Effort
Belgian cycling superstar Wout van Aert admitted to feelings of disappointment after finishing ninth in a dramatic breakaway effort during Stage [X] of the 2025 Tour de France. Despite a valiant performance and aggressive riding throughout the day, the Jumbo-Visma rider was unable to capitalize on a golden opportunity to clinch a stage victory, a result that left him visibly frustrated but reflective after the finish.
A Bold Move in the Mountains
The stage was one of the more grueling days in this year’s Tour, featuring a series of challenging climbs and punishing descents. From early on, van Aert made his intentions clear. He joined a high-powered breakaway group featuring some of the race’s most aggressive and in-form riders, setting a relentless pace that splintered the peloton and drew the attention of commentators and fans alike.
Van Aert, known for his all-round abilities, was arguably the most versatile rider in the group. With his reputation as a former cyclo-cross world champion and one of the fastest finishers in a reduced group, many expected him to either go solo late in the stage or time his sprint perfectly. However, cycling is never that predictable.
“I Thought I Had It in Me”
Speaking to reporters after the race, a visibly drained van Aert expressed mixed emotions.
> “It’s a shame that I missed the shot,” he said. “I felt good in the group, the legs were there. I thought I had it in me to go for the win, but in the last 5 kilometers, the dynamics in the group shifted.”
Van Aert tried a few attacks in the final 10 kilometers, sensing that the cooperation within the breakaway was deteriorating. However, his attempts were quickly marked by rivals who knew how dangerous he could be. By the time they approached the final climb and descent, van Aert had spent significant energy trying to thin the group, which may have cost him in the final dash.
Tactical Disruptions and Team Priorities
Some have questioned whether Jumbo-Visma’s tactical approach may have played a role in van Aert’s result. With Jonas Vingegaard still in the GC mix and stage wins being tightly contested, the team has had to balance multiple objectives. Van Aert, once the Tour’s go-to breakaway assassin, has seen his role evolve—supporting Vingegaard in mountain stages, while also seeking personal glory when opportunities arise.
> “It’s always a balance,” van Aert acknowledged. “We’re here for the overall classification with Jonas, but when I get the green light, I give everything. Today was one of those days, and it just didn’t go as planned.”
His teammate and team director both praised his effort, emphasizing the importance of being present in the breakaway and putting pressure on rival teams.
Rivals React
Other riders in the breakaway also commented on van Aert’s performance. Frenchman Valentin Madouas, who finished third on the stage, said,
> “Wout was really strong today. Every time he surged, we all had to respond. But in a group like this, it’s not just about strength—it’s about timing.”
The eventual stage winner, [Name], commended van Aert’s efforts, calling him “a rider who never gives up, even when it’s not his day.”
Fan and Expert Reactions
Cycling pundits and fans were quick to weigh in on social media, with many expressing disappointment on van Aert’s behalf.
“He rode with his heart again,” tweeted one fan. “That’s why we love him. But it’s got to be tough to keep finishing just outside the podium.”
Cycling analyst Dan Lloyd commented on Eurosport:
> “Wout van Aert is such a thrilling rider to watch. He animates the race, and even when he doesn’t win, he’s central to the day’s drama. But it’s now been a while since he took a stage win at the Tour, and I think that’s beginning to weigh on him.”
What’s Next for Van Aert?
Though this result may sting, the Tour is far from over. There are still multiple stages where van Aert’s skillset could prove decisive—particularly medium mountain days and potential sprint finishes from reduced groups. Additionally, if the GC battle heats up and Vingegaard requires support, van Aert could play a crucial role in team tactics.
> “There are still a lot of chances to come,” van Aert concluded. “I’m not done yet. I’ll keep fighting, that’s for sure.”
Given his tenacity and hunger, few would bet against Wout van Aert bouncing back with a statement performance in the coming days.
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As the Tour de France continues to unfold, one thing is certain: Wout van Aert remains one of the most dynamic and fearless riders in the peloton, and fans around the world will be watching closely to see if he can finally convert his relentless efforts into a much-deserved stage victory.