In a momentous occasion for Belgian cycling, legendary cyclist Eddy Merckx declared Wout van Aert the best Belgian cyclist in a prestigious ceremony held in Brussels on March 9, 2025. The announcement, made by the five-time Tour de France winner and three-time world champion, has sent ripples through the cycling world, as Merckx’s words carry considerable weight, particularly given his unmatched legacy in the sport.
The ceremony, attended by cycling enthusiasts, former champions, and sports officials, was a celebration of Belgian cycling history. Merckx, widely regarded as one of the greatest cyclists of all time, took the stage to present his recognition of van Aert, who has been making waves in the cycling world with his exceptional versatility and consistent performances.
Wout van Aert, a rider for Team Jumbo-Visma, has established himself as one of the top all-rounders in modern cycling. Known for his prowess in classics, time trials, and grand tours, van Aert’s ability to dominate across various terrains has earned him the admiration of fans and experts alike. His ability to win in both flat sprints and hilly classics, as well as his strength in time trials, has made him a standout talent in the peloton.
Merckx’s endorsement of van Aert comes at a time when the 29-year-old rider is at the peak of his career. Van Aert’s victory in major races, including the 2024 World Championships in Glasgow and his success in the Tour de France, has solidified his status as one of the premier figures in cycling. Merckx, who is no stranger to being called the “Cannibal” for his relentless dominance in the sport, spoke highly of van Aert’s balanced approach to racing, which mirrors his own.
“I’ve seen many talented Belgian cyclists come and go, but Wout has something truly exceptional,” Merckx said during his speech. “He has the power, the intelligence, and the determination to succeed in every race he enters. His ability to compete at the highest level across different disciplines is something that is rarely seen. I have no doubt that he will go on to achieve even greater things in the future.”
Merckx’s statement has added another layer of significance to the ongoing success of van Aert’s career. As one of the most respected figures in the sport, Merckx’s endorsement is likely to elevate van Aert’s standing even further in the Belgian cycling community and beyond. Merckx himself has been an inspiration to generations of riders, and his praise of van Aert only reinforces the incredible legacy that the Belgian cycling scene has cultivated over the years.
The announcement also highlights the growing importance of Belgian cyclists on the international stage. Belgium, a nation with a rich cycling heritage, has long been known for producing top-tier riders who excel in both the spring classics and the grand tours. Merckx, along with riders like Rik Van Looy and Tom Boonen, has contributed to this legacy, and the emergence of talents like van Aert continues to bolster the country’s cycling reputation.
Van Aert’s response to Merckx’s praise was one of humility and gratitude. “To receive such recognition from someone like Eddy is a true honor,” he said. “He is a legend, and his words mean the world to me. I have always looked up to him, and to be named the best Belgian cyclist by him is something I will cherish for the rest of my career.”
The award comes at an exciting time for van Aert, who is preparing for the 2025 season, which promises to be a pivotal year for the rider. With multiple goals on his calendar, including the upcoming Tour de France and World Championships, van Aert will undoubtedly be motivated by the confidence and support expressed by Merckx.
As the cycling world looks forward to another season of thrilling competition, one thing is certain: the Belgian cycling legacy is in good hands, and with riders like Wout van Aert leading the charge, the future looks bright for the sport in Belgium.
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