"I still want to try and discover a lot" - Fem van Empel excited ahead of road debut for Jumbo-Visma

One of the newer sensations in the world of women's cycling, 20-year-old Fem van Empel is set to make her much anticipated debut on the road for Jumbo-Visma.

Having had an incredibly successful winter cyclocross campaign, including victory at the Cyclocross World Championship in Hoogerhiede, it's fair to say big things are expected of van Empel on the road. "I didn't expect to win so much. I had some hope that I could compete for the podium, but there was a lot more to it. A lot has come my way, but I handled it well," she says to In De Leidestrui.

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"I am very happy with how it turned out and I remain ambitious, despite the fact that I have already won a lot. A bright future is coming with Jumbo-Visma," continues van Empel. "I get to go road and mountain bike riding. I still want to try and discover a lot."

It seems that the team is also in agreement that this season will be viewed as a journey of discovery rather than a quest for wins. “We have no specific expectations on the road. With what she's showing now, I think she expects a lot herself," sports director Jan Boven reveals. "On the road it is more of a game, although I think Fem can handle that. Fem is a blank slate. It looks impressive what she does. The ease with which she rides around is nice to see."

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PREVIEW | Omloop Het Nieuwsblad 2023