Van der Poel, hunting for 7th world championship in cross-country: “My inspiration”

Appointment for Sunday 22 December in Zonhoven, Belgium, for the world cup test: that will be the seasonal debut for the world cross (and gravel) champion Mathieu Van der Poel, who will aim for his 7th world title on 2 February in Lievin, France. By winning, he would equal Eric De Vlaeminck, Roger’s brother, the only one with 7 cross country titles so far. “This hunt is a major source of inspiration for me and has become a driving force in shaping my commitment to this winter’s cyclocross season,” said Adrie’s son (and Poulidor’s grandson). There will be a total of 11 crosses that the 29-year-old Dutchman from Alpecin-Deceuninck will compete in, and 4 direct matches with his long-time rival Wout Van Aert – the first of which will be on 23 December in Mol in the Superprestige – who however will not participate in the World Championship.