Toon Aerts (32) is the new European cyclocross champion. After a thrilling race that had fans glued to their screens, he took the win in a sprint against Thibau Nys. “I never thought I’d experience this again,” said an emotional Toon Aerts.
“Nine years ago, I already became European champion in Pontchâteau, but so much has happened since then… To be able to experience this again in my second career is unbelievable.” With tears of pure relief, Toon Aerts claimed the European title in Middelkerke. “The past few years have been incredibly tough,” he said. (He’s, referring to the suspension he had to serve, ed.) “But I always kept going. Often against all odds. You get older, riders you used to race with retire, but I kept pushing on. Becoming European champion again was something I never expected anymore.”
Aerts rides for Deschacht-Hens, the cyclocross team that has been collaborating with Lotto Cycling Team since this spring. He is under contract with Lotto and also competed in a road program with the team over the past few months.
In Middelkerke, Aerts initially seemed to miss the decisive move, but managed to fight his way back from behind. “I don’t even know what all happened today,” he said. “At one point it looked like the race was lost- I was stuck at the back. But thanks to a few strong moves I managed to rejoin the front group. And that final lap… I have no idea what that even was. Luck was definitely on my side today. This is the most beautiful victory of my career.”
