Wout van Aert and Jonas Vingegaard are set to make their return to the peloton as they begin their 2025 campaign. The Team Visma | Lease a Bike leaders will take on a Spanish-Portuguese doubleheader, starting with the Clásica Jaén on 17th February before racing the Volta ao Algarve from 19th February.
Van Aert eyes gravel challenge and Algarve test
Van Aert follows a similar early-season schedule to last year, using these races as preparation for the cobbled classics. The Belgian had misfortune in Jaén in 2024 but went on to finish third at Omloop Het Nieuwsblad and win Kuurne-Brussels-Kuurne.
“Last year was my first time riding these races,” said Van Aert, who also won a stage at the Algarve in 2024. “It turned out to be the perfect preparation for the Flemish opening weekend. We thought it would be a good idea to include the Clásica Jaén and the Volta ao Algarve in my programme again. I think they are two beautiful, varied races where I can immediately test myself. A gravel race always makes my heart beat a little faster.”
The 30-year-old will be joined in Jaén by Sepp Kuss, Tiesj Benoot, Ben Tulett, Loe van Belle, Menno Huising, and Tijmen Graat.
The Volta ao Algarve features a mix of terrain, finishing with a decisive mountain time trial. “The Volta ao Algarve has a bit of everything,” Van Aert added. “There are a few stages where I see opportunities to go for the win, but the main goal is to take another step in my preparation for the big spring classics. Of course, we’ll also aim for the overall victory with Jonas. I’m looking forward to racing my first road races of the season.”
Vingegaard makes season debut in Portugal
Vingegaard returns to competition for the first time since August, skipping the Clasic Jaén and making his debut at the Volta ao Algarve. The Dane will test his form ahead of his bigger objectives later in the season.
“This will be my first participation in the Volta ao Algarve, which definitely adds extra motivation,” said the 28-year-old. “I hope I can immediately compete for the overall win, although I primarily see the race as preparation for my bigger goals later in the season. It’s great to be surrounded by such a strong team right from the start, with Wout, Sepp Kuss, Tiesj Benoot, Wilco Kelderman, Ben Tulett and Loe van Belle. I’m excited to pin on a race number again.”
The Portuguese stage race begins with an opening stage between Portimão and Lagos and concludes with a challenging mountain time trial.
Main photo credit: Visma | Lease a Bike
