05/09/2023

"When you start training in a jersey like that, you realize just how special it is" - Mathieu van der Poel on the career changes the rainbow jersey has brought

Mathieu van der Poel resumed racing at the Bretagne Classic. With no pressure, the Dutchman will now take on a few races to end his season on the road, but with all of his goals accomplished. He talks about the feelings that come with the rainbow stripes he now carries.

"I spent a few days with friends in Marbella. Did I have a good time in the Spanish party town? Well, it wasn't too shabby. It was only a brief three-day getaway," the World Champion told In de Leiderstrui. Asked if he is afraid of the 'rainbow curse', the Dutchman is not too stressed about it: "No, I'm definitely not afraid of that. And even if that curse exists, it'll catch me while I'm wearing a beautiful rainbow jersey. I'll gladly take that!"

"I wasn’t ready for all three weeks of racing" - Tadej Pogacar blames wrist fracture for Tour de France breakdown

Winner of Milano-Sanremo, Paris-Roubaix and the Worlds, it would've been hard to imagine such success despite his evident quality. He reached his best form in the moments where it mattered the most, however he doesn't hide that he's also experienced disappointments.

Although his compatriots scored enough points to succeed, van der Poel himself was expected to race the XCO World Championships and fight for the spot he needs to be part of the Olympic Games race. He crashed out in the first lap of the race, a dramatic end to his stint in the discipline: "It does stay with you for a bit, of course. But fortunately, it didn't last too long. I had a few days of self-reflection."

"I don't believe in Kuss" - Jose De Cauwer maintains Remco Evenepoel still only has two Jumbo-Visma riders to worry about

Ultimately the situation did have a happy ending, and he does not need to feel sorry for the mistake. Next season it is not known how he will manage so many goals, but for the time being he can relax.

Although he admits that he will be extra motivated to train after acquiring an equipment that has not match in the peloton. "When you start training in a jersey like that, you realize just how special it is. I'm even more motivated now to showcase even more remarkable achievements."