After a somewhat disappointing comeback at the Clásica Jaén Paraíso Interior earlier this week, Wout van Aert returns to action today as the 2025 Volta ao Algarve begins in Portugal. Following his sluggish start, the Belgian is eager to show improvement.
In a pre-stage 1 interview ahead of the Volta ao Algarve’s start this afternoon, Van Aert shared his positive experience from last year, saying, “I enjoyed racing here for the first time and was already in good form during the opening weekend.”
He believes this race is an ideal opportunity for his development, adding, “Your progress depends on preparation. Riders with more race time may see only slight improvements, but I feel I still have a lot to gain.”
While primarily focused on supporting Jonas Vingegaard, Van Aert will have opportunities in upcoming sprint stages to rediscover his winning form. “Our main goal is the overall classification for Jonas.
We’re not planning to control the race for a sprint today, but I’ll have some freedom. If the peloton stays together, I’ll try to position myself well,” says the 30-year-old. “Winning a stage isn’t my top priority this week, but I won’t simply let the chance slip away.”