'A new mindset was born' – Wout van Aert reveals how beating Tadej Pogačar at the Tour de France paved the way for Paris-Roubaix triumph

Wout van Aert has revealed that his victory over Tadej Pogačar during the 2022 Tour de France was the catalyst for his subsequent Paris-Roubaix triumph. The Belgian star stated this specific Tour de France moment fostered a "new mindset," which he credits for his second Monument win. Van Aert, despite a career studded with accolades, described the Roubaix victory as his career highlight, albeit one that "felt like a relief" rather than pure elation.

This revelation offers insight into the psychological battles fought at the sport's highest echelons. Van Aert, often lauded for his versatility but sometimes criticized for a perceived lack of ruthlessness in Monuments, found a crucial mental edge against a rider of Pogačar's calibre. His 2022 Tour de France performance, particularly his dominant stage wins and green jersey campaign, demonstrated a new level of confidence that clearly translated into his Classics ambitions, culminating in the cobbled Monument.

It seems even a rider of Van Aert's immense talent needs a mental breakthrough to truly unlock Monument-winning form. The relief, rather than joy, speaks volumes about the internal pressure.