Wout van Aert notes that his popularity has increased significantly. The Belgian from Jumbo-Visma is harassed weekly by fans who ring the bell and then make a phone call.
“I’ve noticed the attention for me is increasing,” he said at his team’s presentation on Thursday Dirty. “People just ring the bell at my house. There’s no need. The chance of me opening the door is minimal.”
“It happens regularly that people come to my door, even on a weekly basis. They ring the bell with a request to sign a shirt or organize something special. Everyone has their own story and I understand that, but it’s not always easy. I’m me. I’d rather be left alone when I’m home.”
The 28-year-old Van Aert had a successful away season. The Flemish won three stages in the Tour de France and also took the green jersey. Also, he was the strongest at the E3 Saxo Bank Classic and Omloop Het Nieuwsblad, among others.
Van Aert is currently working on his cyclocross season. The triple world champion won the World Cup race in Dublin about two weeks ago and will take to the field on Friday at the Zilvermeercross in Mol, Belgium, where he will meet his rival Mathieu van der Poel.
Van Aert is sometimes surprised by his popularity. “I used to be known for cyclo-cross, but now it goes way beyond Belgium. Maybe not all over the world, but all over Europe and that’s a special feeling. Abroad I’ve had the feeling for a long time that I’m ‘at ease’ was, but suddenly I’m recognized there as well.”
