Why Marianne Vos hasn’t raced cyclocross this winter: "Family health reasons"

Marianne Vos was a notable absentee from cyclocross this winter. In an interview with NOS, the eight-time world champion reveals why she didn't compete in the field this season.

I had a different winter than usual. Skipping the cyclocross season was already a consideration at the start of last season, but it was also due to family circumstances. My father was in the hospital, and that's what you focus on then. I wanted to be there for him," said Vos.

As a three-time road world champion, she experienced a different winter than usual. Nevertheless, cycling continued to play an important role during this difficult period. "Usually, it's a daily routine. You ask yourself where you can improve and what training you can do. This time, I mainly had to find time to ride my bike and also to relax. It was what gave me direction. You can look ahead to the season as a point on the horizon. My partner and I focus on that every day. It wasn't an optimal preparation, but in the end, I'm happy with the winter I managed to get through," she concluded.

In the lead-up to the Gravel World Championships last October, Vos already revealed that her father was experiencing health problems.