Should Wout van Aert completely change his race schedule and ride the World Championships with the pros and not the U23 riders? Belgian national coach Rudy de Bie leaves the decision to the rider himself but he admits to be impressed by the youngster.
In the last few races, Wout van Aert has crushed the opposition. "But it is not only during the past few days that van Aert has made an impression on me," Belgian national coach Rudy de Bie tells Sporza.
"Even in the earlier races and in the last season where he rode in the U23 category, he excelled. He has only become stronger and more impressive. Everyone is amazed, also the other riders.
"Wout makes it all look so easy but it isn't. It is not due to a lack of competition because Meeusen, Pauwels and Van der Haar are also having a good time."
At the Belgian Championships, van Aert will ride with the pros but what about the Worlds in a few weeks? Does de Bie have any advice?
"I leave the choice to van Aert. More and more people will probably want him to do the elite race.
"At the U23 level, he is the defending champion and he can only lose the title. In the pro race, he can only win. It would be difficult for him to lose against the U23 riders. But it is his future and his choice."
On Sunday, January 11, it is time for the Belgian Championships in Erpe-Mere. "The course will definitely suit Wout. Regardless of the weather and what impact it will have on the circuit, it will be tough. He is one of the biggest favourites," de Bie says.
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