'We're not superstitious, but we think our Michael rode along with Wout' – Goolaerts' parents moved by Van Aert's victory tribute to teammate who died during Paris-Roubaix 2018

Wout van Aert’s victory at the 2023 Paris-Roubaix was deeply emotional, marked by a heartfelt tribute to his late teammate Michael Goolaerts, who tragically died during the 2018 edition of the race. As Van Aert crossed the finish line, he pointed to the sky in memory of Goolaerts, dedicating his first Roubaix win to the fallen rider and his family. The gesture resonated strongly with Goolaerts’ parents, who expressed a poignant belief that their son was riding alongside Van Aert during the race. Van Aert’s connection to Goolaerts and the significance of the victory were evident in his post-race reflections. He revealed that winning Paris-Roubaix had been a personal goal since 2018, the year he lost his teammate. Despite numerous setbacks, including bad luck and fierce competition, Van Aert remained determined to honour Goolaerts, making the triumph not only a career milestone but also a deeply personal achievement. The victory was dedicated not just to Michael but also to his family and former teammates, highlighting the enduring bond formed through shared grief and ambition. The Goolaerts family, particularly Michael’s father Staf and mother Marianne, were visibly moved by Van Aert’s tribute. Staf admitted that he rarely watches races anymore due to the pain of losing his son but made an exception to listen to Van Aert’s radio interview on the day of the win. The family has maintained a respectful and supportive relationship with Van Aert over the years, appreciating his ongoing commitment to honour Michael’s memory. Staf described the victory as a long-awaited and emotional moment, acknowledging that hope had nearly faded amid Van Aert’s previous misfortunes and the emergence of other top contenders. In the days following the race, Van Aert fulfilled another promise by sending flowers to the Goolaerts family, a symbolic gesture that further cemented the emotional significance of his win. Marianne noted that Michael holds a special place in the hearts of Van Aert and his former team, underscoring the lasting impact of the tragedy on their lives. The family expressed gratitude for the continued remembrance of Michael within the cycling community, with Staf revealing that the flowers would be placed alongside Michael’s urn, which is shaped like a cobblestone—a fitting tribute to the iconic race where he lost his life.