Mathieu van der Poel Likely to Miss Dendermonde as Rib Pain Persists
Mathieu van der Poel’s cyclocross season continues to face setbacks as the Dutch star grapples with lingering rib pain sustained in a recent crash. After sitting out Baal on New Year’s Day and Koksijde on January 4th, it appears that the Alpecin-Deceuninck rider will also miss the X²O Trofee round in Dendermonde scheduled for January 5th.
The 28-year-old had been expected to challenge Wout van Aert and other top contenders in the prestigious event. However, with his sights set firmly on the Cyclocross World Championships in Tábor, Czech Republic, on February 2nd, van der Poel and his team are prioritizing recovery to ensure he is in peak condition.
Van der Poel’s rib injury stems from a hard crash during the Superprestige round in Zolder on December 27th, where he visibly struggled to maintain his usual explosive form. While initially hoping for a swift return, the discomfort has proven more persistent than anticipated, prompting a cautious approach from his medical team.
In van der Poel’s absence, attention will turn to rivals such as Van Aert and Eli Iserbyt, who are likely to capitalize on his absence in the upcoming races. Fans will also look forward to the anticipated showdown between the sport’s biggest stars when van der Poel makes his return.
The World Championships have always been a focal point for van der Poel, a four-time world champion in cyclocross. While this enforced break may disrupt his rhythm, it also offers an opportunity to rest and prepare strategically for a shot at reclaiming the rainbow jersey in February.
Cyclocross enthusiasts will eagerly await updates on van der Poel’s condition as the countdown to Tábor begins.
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