"We do certain things every day. But he's also smart enough to handle some things himself" - Sven Nys looking to guide son Thibau to stardom

Sven Nys had a long career as a bike rider and was a two-time Cyclocross world champion. Now though, he's looking to guide his son Thibau Nys as the reigning under-23 Cyclocross world champion looks to impress on the road.

"Within his team I leave Thibau completely alone. But of course, we have daily contact. We do certain things every day. But he's also smart enough to handle some things himself," Nys senior tells In de Leidestrui. Whilst Sven Nys is currently team manager at Baloise - Trek Lions, son Thibau is impressing at Trek - Segafredo. "Thibau has made it clear to himself that he has already achieved more than he ever dared to dream."

As mentioned, Thibau Nys is the current under-23 Cyclocross world champion, as well as stage winner at the 2023 Tour of Norway on the road and most recently finished on the podium of two stages at the Baloise Belgium Tour, battling it out with his idol Mathieu van der Poel. So what next for him?

“This year in particular is going really well. I think he would also be very keen to get into the role of a helper within the squad, if needed at some point. This calendar year it is just a matter of learning a lot, making mistakes and at some point achieving another success," Sven Nys details.

"After the Baloise Belgium Tour he goes to the Belgian championship," he continues. "Then there will be a break, during which he will also go on altitude training. Then follows the Tour de Wallonie and he will try to make it to the Belgian U23 selection for the World Cycling Championships in Glasgow. He closes his road season with the Renewi Tour, where the focus will be completely on the Cross season."