As the new cyclocross season prepares to launch in Dendermonde, team manager Jurgen Mettepenningen has moved to reassure fans about the winter schedules of Wout van Aert and Mathieu van der Poel, even as questions persist over the world champion’s participation. While Mettepenningen expressed strong confidence that Van der Poel will race during the winter, differing perspectives from within Van der Poel’s own circle have highlighted the mental fatigue and personal milestones that could keep the Dutch star sidelined.
The cyclocross calendar is set to roar back into life next week in Dendermonde, Belgium. Speaking on the upcoming campaign, Pauwels Sauzen-Altez team manager Jurgen Mettepenningen addressed speculation surrounding the sport’s biggest names during an interview with Sporza. Last week, Mathieu van der Poel raised eyebrows by suggesting he might skip the cyclocross season entirely this winter. Mettepenningen, however, remains unconvinced by that prospect. “It would really surprise me if Mathieu did a year without a cyclo-cross,” Mettepenningen told Sporza, setting the stage for what supporters hope will be another blockbuster winter of racing.
Family Realities and Mentally Demanding Schedules Cloud Van der Poel’s Decision
The hesitation surrounding Van der Poel’s winter plans is rooted in more than just a preference for road racing. Following his bronze-medal performance at the World Championships in Montréal, Mathieu van der Poel noted that he was fully focused on the road event and had not yet finalized his winter schedule. Speaking to Het Nieuwsblad, brother David van der Poel confirmed that a winter without the world champion is a genuine possibility. David explained that Mathieu has debated skipping the discipline for several years to experience an off-season resembling a traditional road rider’s preparation. Beyond the physical strain, the burden extends to intense media obligations and all-day mental focus. An impending addition to the family also weighs heavily on the decision; in June, Van der Poel and his partner Roxanne Bertels announced they are expecting their first child, with the birth anticipated in January. David van der Poel noted that approaching fatherhood is a momentous occasion his brother wants to be fully present for, adding another layer to the ongoing deliberation.
Wout van Aert Confirmed for December as Tom Pidcock Sits Out
While Mathieu van der Poel weighs his options, Mettepenningen expressed absolute certainty regarding other marquee names on the international circuit. Tom Pidcock will definitely not feature in the mud this winter, according to Mettepenningen’s assessment. Wout van Aert, conversely, is a guaranteed starter. “Wout van Aert, you shouldn’t doubt that: he’s going to cross in December anyway,” Mettepenningen stated, labeling the winter discipline as Van Aert’s playground. Fans can also look forward to seeing Thibau Nys in action earlier in the winter schedule, providing a vital injection of star power to the early-season events.
Attendance Figures and the Evolution of Cyclocross Icons
The economic and atmospheric health of professional cyclocross remains closely tied to its marquee performers. Mettepenningen acknowledged that gate receipts drop by thousands of spectators whenever figures like Van Aert or Van der Poel stay away. Yet, he maintains that the sport possesses inherent resilience. Comparing eras, Mettepenningen pointed out that fifteen years ago, battles between Sven Nys and Bart Wellens drew thousands of supporters to circuits, just as Van Aert and Van der Poel do today. Looking beyond athletic prowess, Mettepenningen emphasized that the modern discipline requires distinct personalities alongside the physical titans. The sport currently lacks riders possessing the outspoken presence and charisma to match Van Aert, Van der Poel, and Nys on and off the bike.
Frequently Asked Questions About the 2024-2025 Cyclocross Winter
When does the new cyclocross season begin?
The opening round of the upcoming winter calendar takes place next week in Dendermonde, Belgium.
What factors are influencing Mathieu van der Poel’s potential absence?
According to his brother David van der Poel, the Dutch champion is weighing the mental fatigue of media and all-day race commitments, alongside his partner Roxanne Bertels expecting their first child in January.
Will Wout van Aert and Tom Pidcock compete in the mud this season?
Jurgen Mettepenningen confirmed that Wout van Aert will definitely race in December, while Tom Pidcock will not be seen on the cyclocross circuit this winter.
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