Mathieu Van Der Poel Prepares to Conquer the 2025 Cyclocross World Championships – What You Need to Know

Mathieu van der Poel is gearing up for the upcoming world championships after a strong weekend in the cyclo-cross World Cup. He won both races held this weekend, showcasing his skills and determination.

In Hoogerheide, where the circuit was designed by his father, Adrie, van der Poel secured his seventh victory of the season. Earlier, he had triumphed over Belgian rider Wout Van Aert in Maasmechelen. However, Van Aert did not take part in the race on Sunday.

The reigning world champion showed he’s back in top form after recovering from a rib injury sustained in a crash last month. “I’m not 100 percent yet, but my broken rib doesn’t hurt too much anymore,” the 29-year-old rider mentioned after his win.

On Sunday, van der Poel took the lead from the start and finished with a remarkable lead of 1 minute and 42 seconds over Belgian Michael Vanthourenhout. Even though Vanthourenhout didn’t win the race, he did secure the top spot in the final World Cup classification after 12 races.

As the cyclo-cross world championships approach, van der Poel is a strong contender in Lievin, France, set for January 31 to February 2. He aims to equal the record of seven world titles held by Belgian Eric De Vlaeminck.

Wout Van Aert will join him in the competition, promising an exciting showdown. “I’m feeling good, and my winter has gone well,” he said. Despite only racing five times this season and suffering two defeats to van der Poel, he feels ready. After his second-place finish in Maasmechelen, he is motivated for the championship.

This upcoming clash between these two top riders is eagerly anticipated, as both have shown they can rise to the occasion in big races. The world championships will be a key test for both athletes.

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