"My goal is to win": Van Aert is going all out for the Milan - San Remo 2026

Wout van Aert returns to the Milan-San Remo with renewed ambition and without hiding his cards. He does not start as the big favorite, but with the intention of fighting for victory. The Belgian faces the Classicissima as one of the key names in the first Monument of the season, in an edition that appears open and conditioned by multiple race scenarios.

Van Aert returns to San Remo without the pressure of being a favorite but with a clear goal: to win

The Visma Lease a Bike rider has not competed in San Remo since his last podium in 2023, when he finished third in an edition dominated by Mathieu van der Poel and Filippo Ganna. Since then, his absence from the race had put a pause on a relationship that he now resumes with the experience of having won in 2020 and knowing perfectly what this race demands.

His return is not coincidental. After several seasons marked by injuries and setbacks, Van Aert sees this San Remo as an opportunity to measure himself again against the best and confirm his level in a block of classics that will define his spring.

"I skipped Milan-San Remo for a few years, but I was very eager to start from here because it is one of the most beautiful races on the cycling calendar. I really enjoyed following last year's edition, and seeing it brought me even more motivation to be at the start of this Monument."

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The Dutch structure arrives without some important pieces, which positions Van Aert as the sole leader for the race. A responsibility he takes on at a time of upward form, after leaving good sensations in Strade Bianche and, especially, in Tirreno-Adriatico.

The rider himself acknowledged before the race that his preparation has been solid and that he has been able to accumulate competitive rhythm in recent weeks, something key for such an unpredictable race as San Remo.

Van Aert is clear that Milan-San Remo rarely follows a single script. The resolution, as usual, points to the last kilometers, with the Poggio as the definitive judge and options ranging from selective attacks to a reduced sprint.

In that context, the Belgian does not rule out playing a key tactical role. The presence of big favorites like Tadej Pogacar and Mathieu van der Poel can mark the development of the race, especially if both keep an eye on each other in the decisive moments.

Moreover, factors like the wind could directly influence the outcome. A scenario with headwinds would make it difficult to open gaps at key points, something that, in theory, would benefit a larger group of contenders.

"Headwinds could work against some. But for the mortals, this could be an advantage because it would be harder to create significant splits."

Beyond the tactical analysis, Van Aert does not hide his ambition. Although he avoids labeling himself as the favorite, his goal is to win. Achieving this would mean starting the season with one of the most prestigious victories on the calendar and reinforcing his confidence for the rest of the classics.

"Winning the first Classic Monument of the year allows you to be happy throughout the season."

The Milan-San Remo crosses his path again, and this time, the Belgian arrives prepared to play his cards until the end.