“A first World Championships in Africa, that really makes me happy” – Bauke Mollema looks ahead to his goals in 2025

At 38 years old, Bauke Mollema remains as motivated as ever, setting ambitious goals for the upcoming season. The Lidl-Trek rider, who has previously won stages at the Tour de France and Vuelta a España, recently shared his plans for 2025 in an interview with AD, revealing his excitement for the season ahead and a unique opportunity later in the year.

Mollema’s season will kick off at the Tour Down Under, a race he clearly enjoys, "I like the heat. It's great there. Beautiful racing with beautiful views. Relax, chill, everything is well organised. We're away for 25 days in total. That's as long as a Grand Tour. But I'm enjoying myself there. Last year I spent a day on the beach. Did a bit of running. I even took a flight in a small plane. It's great," he said.

Despite being one of the sport’s elder statesmen, Mollema emphasised his commitment is still there, "Even after all these years, I still feel the drive to set goals. It's getting harder to pursue those goals, but the motivation is still there," he shared.

Looking beyond the start of the season, Mollema’s focus is firmly set on the World Championships, which will take place in Africa for the first time.

"If you ask me now which match I'm most looking forward to next season, it's definitely that World Championships. A first World Championship in Africa, that really makes me happy. Isn't that great?" he said.

Mollema acknowledged that he has yet to visit the continent, aside from a holiday in the Seychelles.

"I've never been to Africa. I'm not counting a holiday in the Seychelles, haha. Although that is formally Africa. But I don't just want to go there to visit a special continent. I really want to make it a goal," he explained.

To prepare, Mollema plans to replicate his approach from previous seasons, "That's why I want to approach it more or less the same as last year. With maybe two or three altitude training camps in the run-up to the World Championships. It would be something to really go all out there. It's hard to have realistic dreams anymore," he admitted.