Van der Poel secures Record Eighth Cyclo-cross World Title, considers Road Cycling Focus
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Teh Dutch cycling superstar Mathieu van der Poel clinched a record-breaking eighth elite men’s title at the Cyclo-cross World Championships, while simultaneously hinting at a potential shift in focus towards road cycling, including the possibility of skipping an entire winter of ‘cross racing.
Van der poel entered the race as the clear favorite, surpassing the previous record held by Belgian legend Erik De Vlaeminck. However, the course itself presented significant obstacles, with numerous crashes occurring on the steep, banked sections. Van der Poel navigated these challenges flawlessly, avoiding needless risks and ultimately securing his historic victory.
The dutch star’s triumph was made even more special by the presence of King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands, who personally congratulated him. “It’s nice, of course,” Van der Poel remarked. “It was a really big event today and it’s really cool that he was here.” The King reportedly expressed his pride in Van der Poel and fellow dutch rider,Tibor Del Grosso.
Weighing the Future: road Cycling and a Potential ‘Cross Hiatus
despite the elation of his eighth world title, Van der Poel is already contemplating his future racing schedule. He has previously alluded to potential retirement from cyclo-cross to dedicate himself fully to road cycling, and now appears to be seriously considering a break from the winter discipline.
“Maybe it’s not a bad idea to skip one winter because to be here it’s the first peak of my season always, not only physically, but also mentally,” Van der Poel explained. He stressed the need to be in peak condition for both the Cyclo-cross World Championships and the subsequent road season, acknowledging that maintaining that level of fitness throughout the year is increasingly demanding.
Van der Poel’s ambitions on the road are well-documented.He currently shares the record for three Tour of Flanders wins with six other riders and has secured three victories in Paris-Roubaix, trailing only Tom Boonen and Roger De Vlaeminck. A period away from cyclo-cross could allow him to restructure his road calendar and pursue further success in these prestigious events.
“In the back of your mind,you’re thinking about Flanders and Roubaix,in my case,” he admitted. “Those are the races I could write history as well.” He recognizes he is entering the later stages of his career, stating, “I’m getting closer to the end than I was to the beginning of my career,” but remains determined to achieve his remaining goals.
A Shift in Training and Racing Philosophy
A decision to forgo a winter of cyclo-cross would fundamentally alter Van der Poel’s training and racing program. He anticipates a longer and earlier focus on road cycling, allowing for a more gradual build-up to the major spring classics. “If I know I won’t do cyclo-cross, I will also do a different road program. I will then race longer on the road and start earlier on the road,” he stated. He also highlighted the benefits of recent downtime in Spain, suggesting a renewed emphasis on recovery and mental well-being.
The race saw early challenges from fellow Alpecin-Premier Tech rider Tibor Del Grosso and Belgian competitor Thibau Nys, but Van der Poel ultimately proved too strong, establishing a decisive lead on a steep banking as his rivals faltered. “It was nice to have a good start, and Tibor did a good first part of the race,” Van der Poel acknowledged.”I just went to the front and rode a pace that I was comfortable with.”
As Van der Poel looks ahead, the question remains whether he will continue to dominate the cyclo-cross scene or fully commit to pursuing further glory on the road.His recent comments suggest a growing inclination towards the latter, perhaps marking a new chapter in the career of one of cycling’s most versatile and captivating athletes.
