Best Odds Center
best odds centre button
Click here!
Sport TV
watch live tv button
Click here!
to watch
Live FootBall
NPFL
Click here!
Live Scores
play watch Live Score button
Click here!

Van der Poel Claims Seventh Cyclo-Cross World Title, Equals Historic Record

Posted : 03 February 2025

Mathieu van der Poel secured his seventh cyclo-cross world championship title on Sunday, matching the long-standing record set by Belgian legend Erik De Vlaeminck in 1972. The Dutchman, who has remained undefeated this season, dominated the race from the start, finishing 45 seconds ahead of his long-time Belgian rival, Wout Van Aert.

 

 Thibau Nys, another Belgian contender, claimed third place, crossing the finish line 1 minute and 6 seconds behind Van der Poel. Reflecting on his achievement, Van der Poel expressed his disbelief at equaling such a historic record, calling it a special moment in his career.

 

Despite anticipation for a fierce battle between Van der Poel and Van Aert, the expected showdown never materialized. Van der Poel launched an early attack and led the race from start to finish, while Van Aert, racing from behind, was unable to close the gap.

 

The Dutch rider credited his aggressive strategy and fast start for his commanding victory, emphasizing the importance of gaining an early advantage on a challenging course. Van der Poel’s dominance in the discipline has been remarkable, having won every world title since 2019, except for 2022, when Britain's Tom Pidcock claimed victory in the absence of both Van der Poel and Van Aert.

 

Despite finishing second once again, Van Aert remained gracious in defeat, acknowledging Van der Poel’s superior performance. He praised his rival’s consistency and admitted that his victory was well-deserved. As the cyclo-cross season concludes, the two competitors are set to shift their focus to the spring classics in road cycling. Van der Poel will defend his titles at the Tour of Flanders and Paris-Roubaix, where he is expected to face Van Aert once more in their ongoing rivalry on the cobbled roads.

 

ADD A COMMENT :

Hot Topics

close button
Please fill captcha :