'My performances speak for themselves' - Van Aert responds to criticism

The Belgian rider confirmed the team had discussed the interview that caused a stir in the Tour bubble. "We were surprised to read that after the stage yesterday. I don't want to say too much about it. My performances for this team speak for themselves," Van Aert told Sporza.

Van Aert, who has been a key domestique for Vingegaard in previous editions of the Tour, especially in 2022, whilst also chasing his own ambitions, defended his commitment to the team's goals.

"I consider this team my team, and I always give 100 percent for the goals we set. Like here at the Tour, one of those goals is winning a stage for myself," he said. "That's clear to everyone, including Jonas, and that's what we're aiming for. Are we still friends? Of course."

The 29-year-old stressed that the comments came from Vingegaard's wife, not the two-time Tour champion himself. "I do think it was good to talk about it. It's not Jonas who said anything," Van Aert clarified. "I regret what was said, but people who know me, know they can count on me."

Meanwhile, Van Aert's Tour performance has been below his usual elite standards, finishing 48th in Lille and 80th in Boulogne-sur-Mer - stages that would typically suit his abilities.

"I feel okay, but of course I had hoped for better results and to be more present in the final," he admitted. "I was definitely disappointed after the stage yesterday."

The Belgian suggested his recent illness might be lingering longer than anticipated. "Has the illness affected me more than expected? That's possible. Maybe it drained more energy than I thought. I hoped to be ready, but my legs just weren't there yesterday. As frustrating as that is, I have to accept it."

Looking ahead to today's flat stage 3, Van Aert confirmed he wouldn't contest the expected bunch sprint finish in Dunkerque. "This isn't really a stage for me. It's a flat sprint, and with the headwind, a lot of sprinters will stay fresh. I won't take the risk."