Netflix to Unveil “Behind the Pedals” — The Untold Story of Cycling Star Wout van Aert

Wout van Aert has dazzled cycling fans around the world with his grit, power, and extraordinary versatility. A fixture in the Tour de France and a master across disciplines—from sprints to cyclocross—he’s earned his place among the sport’s elite. But for the first time, viewers will get a glimpse of the man behind the machine.

Netflix has officially announced a new sports documentary, Behind the Pedals: The Wout van Aert Story, set to premiere in late 2025. The series promises a raw, intimate portrait of one of modern cycling’s most captivating figures.

The documentary will chart van Aert’s journey from his early days in Belgium to becoming a global icon, diving deep into his career-defining moments, fierce rivalries, and the unseen emotional and mental toll of life at the top of the sport.

Known for his tireless drive and ability to dominate in nearly every terrain—whether it’s a steep alpine climb, a muddy cyclocross course, or a full-speed sprint finish—van Aert is widely regarded as a once-in-a-generation athlete. But Behind the Pedals aims to explore more than just his achievements—it’s about the cost of greatness.

In a haunting teaser released by Netflix, van Aert rides alone through a fog-drenched forest, his silence broken only by a few powerful words: “You see the victories. But not what it costs.”

Netflix has confirmed the series will include exclusive, never-before-seen footage from inside van Aert’s training camps, in-depth interviews with the rider and those closest to him, and candid insights into the pressure, sacrifice, and resilience that define his life both on and off the bike.

Clara Devos, the documentary’s executive producer and a veteran of acclaimed athlete-focused storytelling, described the series as more than a sports chronicle. “Wout van Aert is more than an athlete—he’s a symbol of resilience, complexity, and excellence,” Devos said. “This isn’t just a cycling story; it’s about what it means to push beyond limits when the world is watching.”

The announcement arrives at a time when cycling documentaries are surging in popularity, with Netflix’s own Tour de France: Unchained drawing a massive global audience. Behind the Pedals, however, promises to dig deeper—offering a profound and personal look into van Aert’s psyche, his motivations, and the personal battles he faces in pursuit of excellence.

Fans and fellow athletes have welcomed the news with enthusiasm. “Wout’s story deserves to be told,” said former world champion Philippe Gilbert. “He’s not just a great rider—he’s a fascinating human being.

So get ready. Because this time, the most powerful ride is the one we haven’t seen—until now.