Van der Poel Prioritizes Classics Over Tour de France Glory
Dutch cycling star Mathieu van der Poel has made it clear that his focus lies firmly on the cobbled classics, even foregoing participation in the prestigious Tour de France.
While recovering from a rib injury that forced him to miss the recent World Cup cyclo-cross event in Dendermonde, Van der Poel revealed his true ambitions for the 2025 season. In an interview with Sporza, he candidly stated, “The Tour de France is a race that doesn’t particularly excite me.”
The Alpecin-Deceuninck rider elaborated, explaining that beyond the allure of stage wins and the coveted yellow jersey, the Tour offers him limited opportunities for victory. He prefers to concentrate his efforts on races where he has a genuine chance of claiming the top spot,rather than competing in a grueling three-week event where he feels his chances are diminished.
Despite his reservations about the Tour,Van der Poel acknowledges its importance and his role in supporting teammate Jasper Philipsen’s sprint ambitions. He sees this as a valuable contribution and a welcome change of pace from the pressure of leading a team.
Looking ahead, Van der Poel has set his sights on conquering the Tour of Flanders and Paris-Roubaix, two races that perfectly suit his aggressive riding style.He aims to etch his name in history by becoming the cyclist with the most victories in Flanders, a feat that would require him to surpass the formidable Tadej Pogacar.
Recognizing the challenge ahead, Van der Poel is implementing a rigorous training regimen designed to close the gap with Pogacar. This includes skipping the Benidorm cyclo-cross event on January 19th to focus on preparations for the spring classics.
Van der Poel’s decision to prioritize the classics over the Tour de France highlights his strategic approach to his career. He understands his strengths and is willing to make tough choices to maximize his chances of success. As the 2025 season unfolds, all eyes will be on Van der Poel as he chases his dreams on the cobbled roads of Europe.
The Van der Poel Dilemma: Classics Glory vs.Tour de France Dreams
Welcome cycling fans! Today,we have the pleasure of hosting retired professional cyclist and cycling commentator Jens Voigt,winner of five Tour de France stages,to analyze Mathieu van der Poel’s bold statement regarding his priorities for the 2025 season. Jens, thanks for joining us.
Jens: It’s a pleasure to be here. Definitely always exciting to talk about the up-and-coming season and Mathieu van der Poel’s ambitions.
Moderator:
Let’s dive straight into it. Van der Poel has explicitly stated that the Tour de France doesn’t particularly excite him [1]. He feels his chances of victory are limited in a three-week
race like the Tour compared to shorter, punchier Classics. What are your thoughts on this?
Jens: Well, it’s a bold statement, isn’t it? To say the Tour de France doesn’t excite you is like saying
climbing Everest isn’t exciting! However, when you look at Mathieu’s strengths, his explosive power, his
ability to handle short, intense efforts, it makes sense. He’s built for the cobbled classics, for stages like
Roubaix and Flanders where he can unleash his full potential.
Moderator:
Exactly. But, wouldn’t he miss out on the prestige and potential sponsorship opportunities that come with
winning a Tour stage or even wearing the yellow jersey? Wouldn’t those be tempting offerings for any
professional cyclist?
Jens:
You’re absolutely right, those are massive rewards. But, Mathieu has already achieved immense success at a
young age. He’s a multiple-time world champion, a Tour of Flanders winner. Maybe, for him, it’s less about
the material rewards and more about establishing himself as a legend of the classic races.
Moderator:
He does mention supporting teammate Jasper Philipsen in the Tour sprints,acknowledging the importance
of the race while focusing on finding the best environment for his personal aspirations. That’s a
commendable team player attitude.
Jens:
Absolutely! A true sign of maturity and respect for the team. It shows he understands his
strengths and is willing to play a valuable role without putting individual ambitions ahead of the team.
Plus, perhaps, with less pressure on himself, he might even enjoy the Tour more this time around.
Moderator:
The question is, can he achieve both? Can he have his cake and eat it too?
Jens:
That’s going to be crucial this year – finding the balance. He needs to be smart about his training,
managing his energy levels throughout the classics season while still being fresh enough to contribute in
the Tour.
Moderator:
Sevilla overtook Van der Poel in the Tour of flanders last year and is world champion, and Pogacar is a Spring Classic contender.
How does Van der poel measure up against these challengers? Can he overcome them to
achieve his goal of becoming the rider with the most Flanders victories?
Jens:
Ah,good question! Sevilla and Pogacar are both formidable opponents. They’re both
incredibly talented, and Sevilla’s win last year showed he’s a true force on those cobbles. Van der Poel will
need to be at his absolute best to defeat them. But that’s what makes it so exciting! A true battle of
titans, where every cobbled kilometer is a test of skill, strategy, and sheer grit.
Moderator:
What a thrilling prospect that is! Now, I want to open the floor to our readers. What are your thoughts
on Van der Poel’s decision? Do you think he’s making the right call to focus on the classics? Let us
know in the comments below!
