Wellens Predicts Swift Return to Cyclocross for Van Aert, Criticizes UCI World Cup Scheduling
Former professional cyclist Sven Wellens believes Wout van Aert will “enter the field fairly quickly,” perhaps as early as late November or early December, according to comments made to Het Nieuwsblad. This comes as speculation mounts regarding Van Aert’s cyclocross schedule this winter, with the rider himself acknowledging a desire to race more cross but prioritizing his road season readiness.
Wellens suggests increased cyclocross participation could benefit Van Aert’s performance in spring classics like the Tour of Flanders and Paris-Roubaix. “The few percentage points that he often falls short in the finals on the road are, in my opinion, the result of the fact that he has been less and less active in the field in recent winters,” Wellens stated. He believes the “punch” and “explosiveness” gained from cyclocross are crucial for success in those races.
Beyond Van Aert’s potential return, Wellens leveled sharp criticism at the UCI and its World Cup scheduling, alleging it is tailored to accommodate the programs of Van Aert and Mathieu van der Poel. “What bothers me is that the UCI tailors the World Cup calendar to their program and crams all heats into December and January as much as possible,” Wellens said.He argues this makes it impossible for riders competing in full seasons to effectively contest all three classifications.
Wellens further claimed Van Aert and Van der Poel have effectively dismissed the importance of the world Cup classification, stating, “They have been saying ‘fuck you’ to the UCI for two years now, but they continue to be angry.” Van Aert recently expressed reservations about prioritizing cyclocross, stating, “It has to fit in with my preparation for the road season…At the moment, cross has to make way for that a bit.”
