"I really have nothing against Mathieu van der Poel. I feel so guilty" - Loenhout spectator regrets almost bringing down the World Champion

Mathieu van der Poel has been for several seasons a frequent victim of the cyclocross crowds, who have spat on him, thrown him urine, recently even blown smoke into his face. Hence when during the Azencross Loenhout he almost came off the bike after colliding with a spectator, it was assumed to be a purposeful act. However it has now been possible to have a new angle of the incident and words from the spectator who almost caused a disaster.

This happened in the opening laps of the race, when in a fast straight section, van der Poel's handlebars moved after being touched by a spectator on the other side of the barriers. This made him wobble and look behind in clear discontent. It didn't end up playing a role in the race's outcome, as the World Champion then rode to victory. However it was another shocking incident for many watching the race, who believed he was purposefully assaulted.

But it is a grey line. It was indeed very close to having very bad consequences, however it was not a purposeful act. Sporza managed to talk to the spectator, who was identified and carried away by the police after the incident took place. "I really have nothing against Mathieu van der Poel. I feel so guilty – it wasn't my intention at all. I love cyclocross very much, so this is the last thing I wanted to happen. I would like to apologize to Mathieu once again." However, it remains another dark episode for the discipline, which almost put the World Champion on the ground in a key part of the cyclocross season.

Christophe Impens, race organizer, believes this is the truth. "Look, there were 15,000 fans here who behaved exemplarily. This was an unfortunate incident. Hopefully, Mathieu doesn't take it too seriously, and we can resolve this amicably. He also wants to apologize to Mathieu personally".