Sean Kelly's Classics column: My heart was with Wout van Aert at Paris-Roubaix, hopefully his victory over Tadej Pogačar will give others confidence too

Cycling legend Sean Kelly, writing for *CyclingNews*, expressed his profound satisfaction with Wout van Aert's recent Paris-Roubaix victory over Tadej Pogačar. Kelly highlighted the significance of Van Aert's triumph, suggesting it could inspire other riders, while also noting Pogačar's imperative to return to the cobbles. Furthermore, Kelly offered tactical insights for Visma-Lease a Bike, opining on how they might have better supported Marianne Vos in her own Classics campaign.

This commentary from a rider of Kelly's stature carries considerable weight, particularly regarding the Classics where he himself was a dominant force. His endorsement of Van Aert underscores the Belgian's burgeoning status, especially in a season where Pogačar has often seemed invincible. Kelly's tactical reflections on Visma-Lease a Bike also touch upon a recurring theme in modern cycling: the delicate balance between individual ambition and team strategy, particularly when multiple leaders are present across different races or genders.

Kelly’s observations cut to the core of contemporary Classics racing: the need for strategic depth and the psychological boost a major win against a formidable rival provides. One suspects his advice for Pogačar will be taken more seriously than his tactical musings for Visma.