Valentin Madouas stunned everyone at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games by securing second place and earning the silver medal for France. He was the final rider to remain on Remco Evenepoel’s wheel and excelled in his local race. While competing in the Tour de Suisse, he commented in a recent discussion regarding the harsh criticism directed at Wout van Aert.
During a discussion for the YouTube channel En Danseuse, the Groupama – FDJ cyclist remarked: “Regardless of being Wout van Aert, there comes a moment when, after repeatedly securing second or third place, you wonder: ‘What more can I do to achieve victory?'” At times, you simply need to be patient for your opportunity, but during that time, countless thoughts flood your mind and the criticism continues. You receive numerous unfavorable remarks, making it difficult to lift your chin.
Van Aert is known as an underdog; he has unfortunately competed alongside Tadej Pogacar and Mathieu van der Poel, yet in truth, he ranks among the top riders of his era: “He is a genuine champion.” If you examine his reliability? Many claim that his season has been underwhelming, but I find it quite remarkable. “He may not have any classic wins, but he consistently finishes in the top five.”
Ultimately, he drew a comparison between him and other top cyclists of the time, mentioning 2019 world champion Mads Pedersen in the discussion: “I would argue he’s likely the third best cyclist globally, trailing only Pogacar and Van der Poel.” He’s on par with Pedersen. I’m entertained by certain critiques. Consider all the sacrifices he’s made and the effort he’s put in to heal from his injury. “That guy is top-tier, there’s no question.”
Madouas’ comments come at a time when Wout van Aert has faced mounting scrutiny for what some critics are calling a “disappointing season,” despite consistently delivering strong results. Van Aert, a multi-discipline powerhouse, has had a 2024 campaign marked more by near-misses than victories. He suffered a crash earlier in the year during Dwars door Vlaanderen that led to multiple fractures, significantly affecting his preparation and form. Despite this setback, he made a rapid and determined recovery, returning to competition in time for key races.
The Belgian star, known for his versatility across cobbled classics, cyclocross, and mountainous terrain, has regularly placed among the top finishers, even if he hasn’t taken a major win this year. Critics, however, have been quick to highlight the lack of podium-topping results. For many, including fans and pundits, this raised questions about whether Van Aert is living up to the high expectations that have followed him throughout his career.
Madouas, however, took a broader and more empathetic view. As someone who has experienced the pressures of elite competition, particularly under the spotlight of a home Olympic Games, he understands the mental toll that external criticism can take on a rider. His silver medal performance in Paris earned him significant praise, but his reflections on Van Aert show an awareness of the harsh standards athletes are often held to — even when delivering world-class consistency.
His defense of Van Aert underscores not just respect for the Belgian’s palmarès, but also admiration for his perseverance and professionalism in the face of injury and expectation. Van Aert’s ability to bounce back and remain competitive in top-level events, often against the likes of all-time greats such as Tadej Pogacar and Mathieu van der Poel, speaks volumes about his quality and resilience.
The comparison with Mads Pedersen also highlights Van Aert’s stature in the modern peloton. Pedersen, a former world champion known for his grit and sprinting prowess, is widely respected across the cycling world. Putting Van Aert on the same level — and even slightly above — reinforces the sentiment that the Belgian remains one of the sport’s elite talents.
In conclusion, Madouas’ remarks serve as both a defense and a tribute. In a sport where winning is everything, it’s easy to overlook the immense physical and mental commitment required just to stay at the top. For Madouas, Van Aert’s legacy is already secured — not just by victories, but by consistency, character, and courage.
