José De Cauwer celebrated his 77th birthday on September 25, leading to questions regarding how much longer he intends to continue working as a commentator for VRT.
Broadcaster Reaches 77th Birthday While Remaining a Regular Voice for Major Races
De Cauwer remains one of the familiar analyst voices during live broadcasts of major cycling events on public television, although his workload has seen occasional adjustments over the past two years where other voices have stepped in. Despite these shifts in scheduling, he continues to cover the sport’s biggest calendar fixtures. In a detailed interview with Het Nieuwsblad, the analyst addressed the milestone of turning 77, expressing disbelief at the numeric reality on his documentation. “I think that figure is pretty crazy,” De Cauwer stated. “Really, it hurts me when I see that on my passport. I don’t feel that old at all. How old am I then? I don’t know, but nowhere near 75.”
Enthusiasm for Cycling Analysis Outweighs Age Concerns
Addressing persistent questions from the public and critics concerning his age and future in the broadcasting booth, De Cauwer maintained that his passion for the sport remains undiminished. He dismissed external doubts regarding his stamina and capability to keep pace with the modern peloton. “My enthusiasm won’t be the problem,” De Cauwer said, adding a direct challenge to anyone questioning his vitality: “Whoever thinks I’m too old can come and work in the garden for a day. They just won’t participate. Not even for the photo.”
Current Standing and Evaluation within the VRT Commentary Team
While acknowledging that he performs fewer broadcasting shifts than he did in earlier years, De Cauwer confirmed that retirement is not an immediate priority for him. He noted that if the decision rested entirely on his personal preference, he would maintain a full, uninterrupted schedule. At the same time, the veteran analyst subjects his own performances to strict self-evaluation. “At the same time, I certainly ask myself the question how long I want to keep doing this,” De Cauwer explained. “Right now the answer is: as long as I can still do it at a good level. Am I still keeping up? Am I staying relevant enough?” Furthermore, De Cauwer recognized that his continued presence ultimately depends on the assessment of his employer at VRT. “When I look at myself and my colleagues, I feel that I’m still riding well within the peloton. If that is no longer the case, I’m going to know it myself. And if I don’t know it, they are certainly going to tell me at VRT.”
