Running event is unlucky: Wout van Aert finally clarifies the big Giro question

Confusion arose following an announcement by Wout van Aert on Tuesday evening. The Belgian cycling star, both on the road and in cyclocross, seemed set for a debut in the Giro d'Italia in 2024. However, a new scenario emerged when Van Aert announced his participation in a running event on May 5 in Breda. Coincidentally, this date falls on the opening weekend of the Giro. How seriously should we take this announcement from the Herentals native? Not very, it turns out...

La Gazzetta dello Sport reported earlier this month that Van Aert is expected to make his debut in the Giro next year. Now, Van Aert is encouraging his followers on Instagram to join him in the Wings for Life World Run, a charity running event. The event aims to raise funds for people who are unable to walk or have difficulty walking and is linked to Red Bull, a major sponsor of Jumbo-Visma and Van Aert.

While Van Aert concludes his Instagram message with a casual 'see you there,' rumors about a Giro start have been persistent for weeks. Still, he leaves it open whether he will actually make an appearance in Breda on May 5, stating, "If my schedule allows it." This suggests that Van Aert is more of a figurehead for, rather than a likely participant in, the running event. "But don't hesitate to sign up!" he concludes.

Van Aert puts an end to uncertainty in Colombia

The lack of clarity was quickly dispelled. During his stay in Colombia (for the local tour with Rigoberto Urán), Van Aert confirmed to Mundo Ciclisto that the Giro d'Italia is on his schedule. "My main goal will be the Giro d'Italia," said the Belgian in clear terms. It seems only a matter of time before we receive an official confirmation from his team regarding his participation, and in what capacity. To be continued!

Van Aert could potentially be played as the general classification leader for Jumbo-Visma in the Giro. For the winner of nine Tour de France stages, it would be his first start in a Grand Tour other than the Tour de France. After two overall victories with the team and considerable personal success, attempting the general classification in a Grand Tour could be an exciting new challenge for the man who has also won the points classification in the Tour.

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