Wout van Aert has slightly opened the door for a participation in the elite race at the cyclocross world championships. However, his coach Johan Lammerts prefers his protege to ride with the U23 riders. "Where should Wout find his motivation for the next 10 years if he already rides with the pros?
 

Immediately after his win at the GP Sven Nys in Baal, Wout van Aert travelled to Spain. "After the busy Christman period I can stay there in peace and nice weather to prepare for the Belgian Championshios," he told Sporza.

This year the Vastgoedservice rider is the big favourite for the national championships. "It is my first Belgian Champiosnhips and I will definitely go for the title. It is always possible that I will be beaten by riders with more experience."

Meanwhile, there has been a lot of debate about his participation at the World Championships. He can defend his title at the U23 level but would clearly be a Belgian medal hope in the pro race too.

Vastgoedservice manager Timmy Simons wants van Aert to ride against the U23 riders but the Belgian opens a door for the elite race.

"As it has always been the plan, the intention is to ride with the U23 riders. That was the idea before the start of the season. But I must admit that we didn't know that I would be winning pro races.

"I don't know if I have doubt about the Worlds. My opinion is that I will start the U23 race. Maybe I will think about it after the Belgian championships where I will discuss it with my staff," he added.

"The national coach says that I have everything to lose at the U23 race but that is also the case in the pro race. If I am the favourite, I have everything to lose. I want to stay at the top for a long time and maybe it is good that my team does not throw me for the lions everywhere.

Coach Marc Lamberts guides Wout van Aert and wants him to ride the U23 Worlds. "If it were me, I would not change his schedule.

"He's only 20 and there are hopefully a lot of good years. Wout should also stay fresh and have new challenges. If he wins everything this year, where should he find the motivation for the next 10 years? Let's give him some time to make progress."