According to Vanmarcke, part of the spectacle and excitement fans have to see Van der Poel race would be lessened if he did, for example, double his number of race days in a calendar year. "I think it would be better if he rode less, because he would always be very motivated at the start and provide a spectacle," explains the 36-year-old former Omloop Het Nieuwsblad winner. "Just look at
Jonas Vingegaard. He also rides a minimal number of races and focuses on the biggest possible: the Tour de France."
When his 2025 calendar was revealed earlier this year, Van der Poel explained the thought process behind just a six-race programme. "I will start in Tirreno-Adriatico because this is the best preparation for Milano-Sanremo. And after that? The same as in previous years. I will not go to the World Championships. I will ride the Tour again. There are a few opportunities for me in the first week,” explained Van der Poel at his press conference. "Do I want to be the first to win the Tour of Flanders four times? It's like the Cyclocross World Championships: I'm more concerned with the race than with the record. Gent-Wevelgem will definitely not be this year. Dwars door Vlaanderen will also be decided later. I'd rather win the Tour four times than Gent-Wevelgem for the first time.”