The approach to Mathieu van der Poel's cyclocross campaign is the same as in previous years. This was confirmed by his father Adrie van der Poel to Sporza during the announcement of his son's cyclocross schedule, who will participate in at least thirteen cyclocross races.
Everything, of course, is once again focused on his road campaign. "He is currently running and cycling again, and in two weeks, intense cyclocross training can be added. Building a solid base in the winter is important for next spring," Adrie explained to VRT.
"If all goes well, you can finish it like that. If it goes better, nothing will be added. But if it doesn't go as expected, there will be dropouts again. Overall, it's the same program as in previous years."
At the World Championships, Van der Poel could make history. Earlier, Mathieu mentioned the cyclocross World Championship record as the main reason to keep racing cyclocross. After his triumph in Liévin, the all-rounder has already equaled Eric De Vlaeminck's seven rainbow jerseys, now it's just a matter of surpassing the Belgian cyclocross legend. Then Van der Poel can rightfully claim the title of 'greatest cyclocrosser of all time'. Given his dominant cyclocross performances in recent years, this is a very realistic scenario.
"It's simply a race he wants to win," Adrie immediately downplays. "Whether it's the 8th or the 3rd... We don’t focus much on milestones. Isn’t that exciting? I don’t think so. You only start to appreciate it once you’re no longer a rider. That’s when you realize what you’ve done. I don’t think the athletes are concerned with that."
Mathieu van der Poel
