Harelbeke, Belgium – Visma-Lease a Bike team leader Arthur van Dongen offered a staunch defense of Mathieu van der Poel’s performance at the E3 Saxo Classic, dismissing any suggestion that the Dutchman’s late-race challenge signaled weakness. Despite a thrilling finale that saw Van der Poel nearly overtaken, Van Dongen believes the Alpecin-Deceuninck rider delivered an “exceptional” display of cycling prowess, solidifying his status as the favorite heading into the Tour of Flanders.
Van der Poel secured his third consecutive victory at the E3 Saxo Classic on Friday, March 28, 2026, after a daring 40-kilometer solo effort. Even as the win wasn’t without its tense moments – a determined chase group nearly reeled him in during the closing kilometers – Van Dongen insists the challenging course played a significant role in the drama. The E3 Saxo Classic, often dubbed “Mini Flanders” due to its similar terrain, served as a crucial tune-up race for both Van der Poel and his rivals ahead of the upcoming spring classics.
No Need to Question Van der Poel’s Dominance
“What Mathieu shows here is exceptional. People who look for something else are looking for things that aren’t there,” Van Dongen told Het Nieuwsblad, as reported by various cycling news outlets. He emphasized that Van der Poel’s strength shouldn’t be diminished by the fact he was challenged in the final stretch. The course, characterized by long, straight sections and a relentless headwind, presented a unique obstacle for a lone rider.
“That makes it particularly difficult to stay ahead on your own,” Van Dongen explained. “To complete such a long solo on this course is remarkably skillful.” He believes the near-catch only underscores Van der Poel’s ability to withstand immense pressure and maintain a formidable pace.
The race saw Van der Poel initially counter an attack from Mads Pedersen (Lidl-Trek) before launching his decisive move on the Oude Kwaremont, a notoriously challenging cobbled climb. He then spent the majority of the remaining distance riding alone, building a substantial lead. While Pedersen mounted a strong chase, and a group including Filippo Ganna (Ineos Grenadiers) threatened to close the gap, Van der Poel ultimately held on for the win.
Dismissing Doubts Ahead of Flanders
Some observers have suggested that the close finish at the E3 Saxo Classic might indicate a vulnerability in Van der Poel’s form, potentially diminishing his chances at the Ronde van Vlaanderen. Van Dongen vehemently disagrees. “This was simply an extremely good performance,” he stated. He remains convinced that Van der Poel is the rider to beat as the peloton prepares for the grueling challenges of the Tour of Flanders.
The Tour of Flanders, scheduled for April 5, 2026, is widely considered one of the most prestigious and demanding one-day races in professional cycling. Its combination of steep climbs, treacherous cobbled sections, and unpredictable weather conditions makes it a true test of endurance, skill, and tactical acumen. Van der Poel’s previous successes in the race, combined with his recent form, position him as a clear favorite.
Notably absent from a strong showing at the E3 Saxo Classic was Wout van Aert (Visma-Lease a Bike), Van der Poel’s primary rival. Van Aert finished back in the bunch, choosing to conserve energy for the upcoming Tour of Flanders and Paris-Roubaix. This strategic decision, while understandable, further highlighted Van der Poel’s dominance at the E3 Saxo Classic.
Zingle Disqualification Casts Shadow Over Visma-Lease a Bike
While Van Dongen praised Van der Poel’s performance, Visma-Lease a Bike faced a separate setback at the E3 Saxo Classic. Axel Zingle was disqualified from the race after being caught holding onto a team car to rejoin the peloton following a puncture. Video evidence, posted on social media, clearly showed Zingle receiving assistance from the vehicle, a violation of UCI rules. The incident resulted in a fine, a deduction of UCI ranking points, and disqualification from the race. This incident underscores the strict enforcement of fair play regulations within professional cycling.
The UCI rules state that holding onto a team vehicle for assistance can result in a CHF 500 fine, removal of 100 points from the rider’s UCI rankings, and disqualification or elimination from the race. Zingle’s actions were deemed a clear breach of these regulations.
Looking Ahead to the Ronde van Vlaanderen
Despite the Zingle disqualification, Van Dongen’s focus remains firmly on Van der Poel’s prospects at the Tour of Flanders. He believes the E3 Saxo Classic served as a valuable preparation race, providing Van der Poel with the opportunity to test his form and refine his tactics. The team will undoubtedly analyze the race data and identify areas for improvement as they prepare for the challenges that lie ahead.
The Ronde van Vlaanderen promises to be a thrilling showdown between Van der Poel and his rivals. With his exceptional form and unwavering confidence, Van der Poel appears well-positioned to contend for the victory. However, the race is notoriously unpredictable, and a number of other riders, including Mathieu van der Poel’s rivals, will be eager to challenge his dominance.
The cycling world now turns its attention to Flanders, where the cobblestone roads and challenging climbs will determine who emerges as the champion. Van der Poel, backed by Van Dongen’s unwavering belief, enters the race as the clear favorite, but the battle for glory is sure to be fiercely contested.
Next Up: The Tour of Flanders takes place on April 5, 2026, in Belgium. Stay tuned to Archysport for full coverage, including live updates, expert analysis, and exclusive interviews.
What are your thoughts on Van der Poel’s performance? Share your predictions for the Tour of Flanders in the comments below!
