Sarah De Bie Highlights the Enchantment Surrounding Wout van Aert: “He Looks Good
In the world of professional cycling, admiration often transcends mere performance, extending into the realm of charisma, versatility, and the unquantifiable aura that some riders exude. Among these, Wout van Aert stands out as a quintessential example—a rider whose presence captivates fans, teammates, and commentators alike.
Recently, Belgian cycling journalist and commentator Sarah De Bie shared her thoughts on Van Aert, emphasizing how even former competitors seem to be enchanted by his remarkable persona. She noted with a hint of admiration that “some ex-runners seem enchanted by Van Aert: he looks good…” This statement encapsulates not just Van Aert’s physical appearance but also the magnetic appeal he possesses on and off the bike.
Wout van Aert has become a household name within the peloton and beyond, thanks to his extraordinary skill set and the sheer consistency he displays across various terrains and race scenarios. His ability to excel in sprints, time trials, mountain stages, and classics has earned him a reputation as one of the most complete riders of his generation.
Sarah De Bie’s comment reflects a broader sentiment shared by many cycling enthusiasts and professionals. Van Aert’s presence is undeniably striking; his athletic build, confident demeanor, and distinctive look contribute to the ‘enchantment’ some ex-runners and insiders mention. It’s not just about his physical appearance but the aura of competence, calmness, and readiness that seem to radiate from him.
Wout van Aert’s career achievements are impressive, but as former cyclist and prominent team leader Matt White pointed out, his significance goes far beyond his palmarès. During an interview with TNT Sports following this year’s Tour de France, White did not hold back his admiration for the Belgian star.
**“He is such a complete rider,”** White asserted, emphasizing Van Aert’s multifaceted capabilities. White, who was until recently a team leader at Jayco-AIUIA and was involved in the Giro d’Italia until early 2025, expressed that Van Aert is one of his favorite riders—if he were to build a team around one cyclist, Van Aert would be his choice.
When asked by TNT presenter Orla Chennaoui why Van Aert is so special, White’s answer was straightforward yet profound: **“He sees good.”** The phrase, in this context, underscores Van Aert’s excellent physical condition, strategic intelligence, and the comprehensive skill set that allows him to adapt and excel in multiple facets of cycling.
Luke Rowe, a fellow analyst and former teammate of Van Aert, humorously suggested that Van Aert’s distinctive hairstyle might be part of his charm, but White quickly corrected the notion, emphasizing that Van Aert’s appeal is rooted in his overall excellence.
**“He looks good, but more importantly, he is so complete,”** White reiterated. The Australian ex-pro emphasized that Van Aert’s importance isn’t solely in his race results but also in his vital role within his team.
One aspect that White highlighted is Van Aert’s invaluable contribution to his teammates. His leadership, support, and selfless efforts often go unnoticed by the general public but are deeply appreciated within the peloton.
“What he does for his teammates week in and week out is impressive,”** White said. He specifically recalled Van Aert’s performance in the Tour de France a few years ago, where his support for Jonas Vingegaard was instrumental in securing the yellow jersey for the Danish rider. Van Aert’s tactical intelligence and resilience in supporting his leaders exemplify the qualities of a true team player.
This perspective resonates with many cycling fans and insiders, who see Van Aert not just as a star sprinter or classics specialist but as the backbone of his team’s success.
Van Aert’s reputation extends beyond cycling circles. His charisma, combined with his athletic prowess, has made him a favorite among fans and media alike. Sarah De Bie’s remarks about ex-runners being enchanted by him reflect the widespread admiration for his appearance and demeanor.
In a sport often characterized by intense competition and rivalry, Van Aert embodies a different kind of allure—one rooted in professionalism, versatility, and a genuine passion for the sport. His ability to perform at a high level across various disciplines has made him a symbol of modern cycling excellence
