Van Aert Returns too Cyclo-Cross, Ready to Face Van der Poel
After a bout of illness forced him to miss the Mol cyclo-cross race, Belgian cycling star Wout van Aert is set to make his season debut this Friday in Loenhout, Belgium. He’ll instantly face his fierce rival, Dutch champion Mathieu van der Poel, in what promises to be an exciting showdown.
Van Aert’s team confirmed the news to Sporza television on Wednesday, revealing that the three-time world champion (2016-2018) has recovered from intestinal issues that sidelined him. His recent Strava data shows a return to intense training, including a 131-kilometer road ride in the Antwerp region on Tuesday and a 45-minute session on plowed fields on Sunday.
While Van Aert is eager to return to the sport he loves,his focus this winter is on preparing for the upcoming road season. Unlike Van der Poel, who is aiming to tie Erik De Vlaeminck’s record of seven world championship titles at the Liévin event in France on February 2nd, Van Aert has adopted a more relaxed approach to cyclo-cross this year.
He has opted for a reduced schedule of six races, compared to Van der Poel’s twelve, emphasizing that his participation is driven by passion rather than specific goals. As he stated a few weeks ago, “Cyclo-cross remains my first love. I like to come back every winter… (But) it will be out of pure love of this sport, with modest ambitions.”
This Friday’s race in Loenhout will be a engaging clash between two titans of the sport. Van der Poel has dominated the early season, securing extraordinary victories at the World Cup in Zonhoven and the Superprestige in Mol. Can Van Aert, despite his limited planning, challenge his rival and make a statement upon his return? Only time will tell.
can Van Aert Spoil Van der Poel’s Cyclo-Cross Dominance? Inside Scoop with Former Pro, Katie Compton
The cyclo-cross world is buzzing with anticipation for Wout van Aert’s return to racing this Friday in Loenhout, Belgium. After a brief illness forced him off the starting line in Mol, the three-time world champion is back, ready to face his arch-rival, Mathieu van der Poel. This showdown has everyone speculating – can Van Aert, despite a reduced cyclo-cross schedule this year, challenge Van der Poel’s dominance?
To help us unpack this exciting return and what it means for the rest of the season, I’m joined by Katie Compton, former elite cyclo-cross world champion and cycling legend. Katie, welcome to the show, and thanks for joining us.
“Thanks for having me! It’s great to see these two go head to head again.”
Let’s jump straight to it. Van Aert is known for his incredible road cycling prowess, and his focus this winter is understandably on preparing for the upcoming road season. With a reduced cyclo-cross schedule, do you think he can truly challenge Van der Poel, who has been on fire this season?
“Honestly, it’s going to be tough. Van der Poel is looking absolutely unstoppable right now, and he’s clearly aiming for that record-tying seventh world title. But don’t underestimate Van aert.Even with limited races, he’s a fierce competitor. His recent training data shows he’s been putting in the work, and he’s known for rising to the occasion in big races.”
do you think Van Aert’s ‘passion project’ approach to cyclo-cross this season – participating for the love of the sport rather than chasing specific goals – could be a tactical advantage? Or might it put him at a disadvantage compared to Van der Poel’s more dedicated focus?
“That’s a great question. It could go either way. On one hand, pressure can be a heavy burden, and Van aert might be freed up to race with more freedom and less expectation. Conversely, consistent racing allows you to fine-tune your form and strategies – something Van der Poel has been doing all season.”
Compelling points Katie.Friday’s race in Loenhout is shaping up to be an epic showdown. What factors do you think will be crucial for determining the winner?
“Form will be key, obviously. But Loenhout is known for its tricky terrain.Course knowledge, bike handling, and tactical prowess will play a huge role. Also, don’t forget about the pressure factor. Can Van aert handle the pressure of facing Van der Poel despite his reduced planning?”
Looking beyond Loenhout, how do you see the rest of the cyclo-cross season unfolding with these two titans going head-to-head?
“It’s going to be a thrilling season! I honestly believe this rivalry will be a catalyst for both riders to push their limits. Van der Poel needs to keep performing to maintain his dominance, while Van Aert will be looking to prove he can still contend even with a lighter schedule. Ultimately, the fans are the real winners, as we get to witness some truly incredible racing.”
Katie, thanks so much for your insights! It’s always a pleasure to hear your thoughts.
What do you think, readers? Can Van Aert spoil Van der Poel’s party in loenhout? Will his limited preparation be a handicap, or can he overcome it with his undeniable talent? Let us know your predictions in the comments below!
