“My victory in 2019 is one that I will never forget" - Mathieu van der Poel hotly-anticipating Amstel Gold Race return

For just the third time in his career, Dutch superstar, Mathieu van der Poel will take on arguably the biggest one-day race in his nation this weekend at the Amstel Gold Race.

A winner back in 2019, that particular edition is one that still sticks in the memory of the current world champion. “Of course I enjoy returning to the Amstel. My victory in 2019 in particular is one that I will never forget,” reflects van der Poel via a press release by his Alpecin-Deceuninck team ahead of this year's edition of the race.

“The spectacular finish still appeals to the imagination, besides being my first major victory on the road. Those are memories that you cherish," van der Poel continues. " The fact that I finished fourth in 2022 shows that I like the race in the hills of Dutch Limburg. It is a kind of mini Tour of Flanders, with many bends and steep slopes, but without cobblestones.”

Starting the race as a heavy favourite, van der Poel will be focusing solely on himself. “As you know, I am not concerned with that. I haven't looked at the start list yet. It sounds cliché, but I mainly rely on my own strength and that of the team. We have proven in recent weeks that as a team we can take control when necessary," he concludes. "I will also be well surrounded on Sunday, with guys who have all proven that they are in good shape. In addition, we are in the right flow. Yes, I think we can travel to Maastricht with confidence.”