Belgian cycling star Wout van Aert has spoken out following a revealing interview given by Trine Marie Hansen, the wife of his teammate Jonas Vingegaard. In the interview, Hansen discussed the emotional and physical toll the past months have taken on their family, particularly after Vingegaard’s crash earlier this year. But what caught many by surprise were her subtle but pointed remarks about the dynamics within Team Visma–Lease a Bike — remarks that didn’t go unnoticed by van Aert.
“We were surprised to read that yesterday,” van Aert said when asked about the interview following Stage 9 of the Tour de France. “I think it’s important to keep some things within the team. We’ve been through a lot together, especially after Jonas’ accident, and I didn’t expect to see certain opinions shared so openly in the press.”
Although van Aert chose his words carefully, there was a clear tone of discomfort. The Belgian has long been seen as both a pillar of strength and a selfless team player for Visma, often sacrificing his own ambitions to help Vingegaard secure back-to-back Tour victories. But as the team navigates a challenging 2025 Tour, cracks may be appearing — not just on the road, but behind the scenes.
In the interview, Hansen expressed frustration over the pressure Jonas has faced and hinted that not all team decisions in recent months had his best interests at heart. While she did not mention van Aert by name, the implications were strong enough to spark headlines across the cycling world.
Van Aert, who only recently returned from injury himself, has been a key figure in supporting the team’s GC ambitions. Still, fans and analysts have speculated whether lingering tensions from the leadership structure — and Vingegaard’s delayed return — are affecting morale.
Despite the dust-up, van Aert was quick to stress that his relationship with Vingegaard remains professional. “I have a lot of respect for Jonas as a rider and as a person. We’ve done amazing things together. I hope we can keep the focus on what matters — the race.”
With the Tour entering its decisive second week, all eyes will be on Team Visma’s chemistry. Will this controversy blow over, or is it a sign of deeper unrest?
One thing is certain — in a sport where unity is often the difference between victory and collapse, this story is far from over.
