Mathieu van der Poel’s victory in the field continues. The last time he was not on the highest podium was on January 27, 2024 in Benidorm and nothing could be done about it on Boxing Day in Gavere. Thibau Nys seemed to make it exciting for a while, but Van der Poel’s texts afterwards indicated total control.
The world champion spoke of a match that was ‘quite special’. While Gavere is generally known for its splendid mud racing, Mother Nature had provided a rock-hard surface after a few nights of frost. And so it was more about technique and tactics, instead of pounding on power.’A different dynamic’, Van der Poel also saw.
Because of this very reason, the rainbow jersey remained somewhat hidden for the first half of the race, even though it was always present when Nys accelerated almost every lap on the most tough climb in the course. “Thibau was strong and I expected that too,” said the eventual winner. “I didn’t think I could release him,” he even confessed.
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Still, Van der Poel said after the podium ceremony that with three laps to go he realy wanted to step on the pedals. The reason was Nys, who had again opened up a gap uphill, after which Van der Poel and the Belgian champion of Baloise Glowi Lions were really together for the first time in the cross. ‘I completed a lap well, otherwise it would have been a sprint.’
Because Van der Poel continued, Nys had to grit her teeth.And it was no coincidence that he came out of his pedal under that pressure and had to quickly let go of the world champion. The gap then became quite large very quickly. ‘I had kept my distance the entire race, but when we were down to two with three laps to go, I had decided to really continue for one lap.’
“To put him on the limit and let him make a mistake,” Van der Poel further explained. And so that happened. Nys himself indicated that he would not have been able to follow the Dutchman without a mistake, but Van der Poel felt differently. ‘Thibau was really the equal today. I actually expected that it would onyl be decided in the last round.’
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We had doubts about this with the team, especially now that the weather conditions are favorable and it is therefore all rideable. Though, we will stick to the plan temporarily, even though I would have a good chance of winning overall if I rode all five.
This decision highlights a common theme in elite cycling: the delicate balance between chasing individual accolades and adhering to a carefully crafted season plan. For Van der Poel, it seems the long-term vision, which likely includes major road racing goals, takes precedence.
So, where will we see the reigning cyclocross king in action? After Dendermonde, Van der Poel is slated to compete on December 29th in Loenhout. The New Year will see him in Baal on January 1st, followed by Mol on January 2nd. The World Cup circuit then beckons with races in Zonhoven, Benidorm (though this date is subject to change), Maasmechelen, and the grand finale in Hoogerheide.
The question on everyone’s mind is: can Van der Poel maintain his winning streak through thes upcoming races? He himself admits the streak won’t last forever. The series will end at some point, of course. Perhaps already in Loenhout, where it may be difficult to make a difference. I have already sprinted there against Tom Pidcock and wout van Aert…
This nod to past battles with fierce rivals like Pidcock and Van Aert underscores the intense competition he faces, even when he’s at his best.
While the World Cup overall might not be the ultimate prize,Van der Poel’s participation in these remaining races is a massive draw for fans and a significant challenge for the rest of the field. His presence alone elevates the competition, and his pursuit of victory in each individual event promises thrilling entertainment.
By Bram van der Ploeg (X: @BvdPloegg | e-mail: b.vanderploeg@indeleiderstrui.nl)
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