Alex MacQuoid
Wout van Aert enters Milano-Sanremo with high expectations after a productive stint at Tirreno-Adriatico. The Visma | Lease a Bike rider believes his physical condition is peak following a winter recovery period. “I’m going there to win,” the former champion stated before the Italian classic.
The Herentals native used the week of racing in Italy to sharpen his competitive edge. After overcoming a winter injury, Van Aert feels his preparation has reached the necessary level for the spring Monuments. He noted that the tough stages provided the essential race days required to challenge the best in the peloton.
Also read: How to watch Milano-Sanremo 2026
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Despite his confidence, Van Aert acknowledges the strength of his chief rivals. He points to Tadej Pogacar and Mathieu van der Poel as the primary contenders for the crown. “I could win because Sanremo is a race where anything can happen,” he explained, emphasizing the unpredictable nature of the 300-kilometer event.
That doesn’t mean the winner in me has disappeared. I’m going there to win.
His historical consistency in Sanremo remains unmatched, as he has never finished outside the top eight. This track record, combined with his previous victory, reinforces the belief that a podium or better is within reach. If Van Aert maintains the power displayed on the climbs of Tirreno-Adriatico, he will likely be a protagonist on the Poggio and in the final dash along the Via Roma. Follow TipsGG for continuous coverage of the spring classics.