Wout van Aert Immortalized: Belgian Cycling Star Honored with Statue in His Hometown
By Staff Writer
In a heartfelt and historic tribute, Belgian cycling icon Wout van Aert has been honored with a lifesize bronze statue in his hometown of Herentals, marking a powerful moment of recognition for one of the most beloved and versatile athletes in modern cycling. The unveiling ceremony, held at the town’s central square this morning, drew thousands of fans, dignitaries, former coaches, and teammates — all gathered to celebrate the hometown hero whose relentless drive and humility have captured the imagination of a nation.
The statue, a stunning representation of van Aert in full race posture on his bike in time trial position, was crafted by renowned sculptor Johan Van Dorpe. It captures not only the physical prowess of the rider but the emotional essence of his journey — a boy from the Kempen who pedaled his way to the world stage.
A National Hero Carved in Bronze
Standing tall on a granite base inscribed with the words “Driven by Grit, Inspired by Home”, the statue shows van Aert in motion — his face locked in steely concentration, muscles tensed, aerodynamic helmet in place, and eyes fixed on the road ahead.
“Wout van Aert is more than a cyclist. He’s a symbol of Belgium’s perseverance, work ethic, and belief in the impossible,” said Herentals Mayor Mien Van Olmen during the emotional unveiling. “This statue will remind generations of children that greatness can start from right here — from our streets, our forests, and our values.”
A Legacy Still in Motion
At just 29 years old, van Aert’s list of achievements already reads like a career retrospective. From winning three World Cyclo-cross Championships to conquering Monuments like Milan-San Remo, delivering stage victories at the Tour de France, and earning a World Time Trial Championship, Wout has proven himself as a rare all-terrain cyclist — capable of excelling in sprints, climbs, time trials, and mud-soaked cyclo-cross courses.
What sets him apart, however, is not just his versatility, but his attitude. Whether sacrificing his own chances to support a teammate or pushing his body to the limit in service of the sport, van Aert has earned admiration for his humility, sportsmanship, and relentless pursuit of excellence.
“I’ve won races around the world, but nothing compares to this,” said an emotional van Aert as he addressed the crowd. “To be honored here, in the place where I learned to ride, to fall, to get up again — it means everything. This statue isn’t just mine. It belongs to Herentals. To Belgium. To every kid who dreams with two wheels and open roads.”
From Forest Trails to Global Podiums
Van Aert’s journey began in the quiet lanes and muddy trails around Herentals. Raised in a modest family with deep sporting roots, he first made a name for himself in cyclo-cross, dominating junior and U23 circuits. His fearless riding style and explosive power quickly gained attention, and his transition to the road scene was met with skepticism — until he started winning.
His performances in the Tour de France, particularly in 2021 and 2022, became instant classics. Whether dropping sprinters in a bunch finish or climbing alpine peaks with GC contenders, van Aert redefined what it meant to be a “support rider” — becoming the engine behind Team Visma | Lease a Bike’s Tour dominance.
A Statue Worth Waiting For
The idea for the statue was first proposed by local cycling clubs in 2022, with over 25,000 signatures collected from fans across Belgium and the Netherlands. A public fundraising campaign, combined with municipal support and private donations from cycling brands, brought the vision to life.
The statue now stands at the Nieuwe Markt, not far from where a young Wout trained in icy winters and muddy springs — a daily reminder of what discipline and passion can yield.
Fans who attended the unveiling came bearing flags, jerseys, and even replica bikes. Some had followed van Aert’s entire career from his junior days. Others, like 9-year-old Max, came wide-eyed with dreams of racing like Wout.
“He’s my favorite,” Max said, beaming. “One day, I want to ride the Tour too. And maybe get a statue like this.”
Tributes Pour In
Messages and tributes flowed in from across the cycling world.
- Julian Alaphilippe: “An incredible champion and an even better person. Congrats, Wout!”
- Tom Boonen, another Belgian great: “Wout has become the face of Belgian cycling. This tribute is long overdue.”
- Tadej Pogačar: “Respect to Wout. One of the hardest competitors I’ve ever faced.”
Even cycling legend Eddy Merckx, often called “The Cannibal,” praised van Aert:
“He reminds me of the old days — when riders did everything and did it well. He is worthy of every honor.”
What’s Next for Van Aert?
Despite the honor, van Aert made it clear that his journey is far from over. After a challenging spring season recovering from injuries, he’s eyeing a strong return in the late summer classics and the 2025 World Championships, where he aims to once again don the rainbow jersey.
He also expressed hope of leading Belgium at the 2026 Olympic Games, potentially in both road race and time trial disciplines.
“The statue is here to stand still,” he joked. “But I still have races to win.”
Final Thoughts: A Living Legend at Home
Wout van Aert’s statue isn’t just a symbol of victory — it’s a tribute to resilience, to loyalty, and to the bond between an athlete and his roots. In an era of fleeting fame and global careers, van Aert has never forgotten Herentals — and now, Herentals will never forget him.
As the sun set over the square and children lined up to take selfies beside the bronze figure, one thing became clear: Wout van Aert is not just a rider of his generation. He is a rider for the ages — and now, his legacy is literally cast in stone and bronze, for all to see and for all to believe.
