'A new mindset was born' – Wout van Aert reveals how beating Tadej Pogačar at the Tour de France paved the way for Paris-Roubaix triumph

Wout van Aert has credited his victory over Tadej Pogačar on the final stage of the 2023 Tour de France as a pivotal moment that reshaped his mindset and paved the way for his subsequent triumph at Paris-Roubaix. Van Aert was the only rider to drop Pogačar on the slopes of Montmartre, securing a solo win on the Champs-Élysées. This breakthrough came after a three-year wait for a Tour stage victory and marked only his second win of the season, significantly boosting his confidence against top rivals. Reflecting on that day during a virtual group ride on Rouvy, Van Aert revealed how overcoming Pogačar challenged his previous belief that riders like the Slovenian and Mathieu van der Poel were unbeatable on short cobbled climbs. Although he acknowledged being fresher on the last day of the Tour, the win instilled a new belief in his physical and mental capacity. Despite this shift, Van Aert faced setbacks in early 2024, including a fractured ankle and a narrow defeat at Dwars door Vlaanderen, which cast doubts over his form heading into Paris-Roubaix. Van Aert described the emotional intensity of his Roubaix victory, which came after years of longing and perseverance. His sprint win was tinged with poignant memories, notably a tribute to his late teammate Michael Goolaerts, who died during their debut at the race in 2018. The Belgian admitted that only moments after crossing the line did the full significance of his achievement sink in, having been entirely focused on the tactical battle with Pogačar in the closing kilometres. The widespread admiration and emotional response to Van Aert’s success have sometimes left him bemused, though he embraces his role as an inspiration for younger riders. He emphasised that his primary motivation remains chasing his own dreams rather than seeking to be a role model, yet he values the opportunity to inspire the next generation. Looking ahead, Van Aert is set to return to competition at the Critérium du Dauphiné, with hopes that the confidence gained from both Montmartre and Roubaix will fuel a strong showing at the next Tour de France.