ANALYSIS: Racing out of his father’s shadows, how good can Thibau Nys be?

This cyclocross season has been a breakout year for Thibau Nys, who is emerging as one of the sport's brightest talents. The 22-year-old Belgian has captured the attention of cycling fans with a string of remarkable performances, including victories at the Belgian National Championships, the European Championships, and, most recently, the UCI Cyclocross World Cup Benidorm. As the son of cyclocross legend Sven Nys, Thibau carries the weight of high expectations, yet he is steadily carving out his own legacy.

Thibau Nys delivered a stunning performance at the World Cup in Benidorm, defeating none other than Wout van Aert along the way who could only manage fourth. The technical and fast-paced course in Spain suited his abilities, and his tactical nous shone through as well. Speaking after his win, Nys remarked, “If I’m in the right place on a course like this, I can finish it.” His timing and positioning were flawless as he surged past the pack in the final stretch, proving his capability to compete against the sport’s elite, in what was one of the closest races of the season up until Nys made his winning move.

The victory was the just the second time Nys had won at the World Cup at the elite level and solidified his reputation as a force to be reckoned with. His triumph in Benidorm also served as a reminder that while much of the focus in cyclocross remains on the rivalry between Van Aert and Mathieu van der Poel, there is a new contender on the rise. The Benidorm course, with its mixture of technical sections and open straights, was a perfect showcase for Nys’ versatility and race awareness. But the real question now is just how good Nys can be, and what will he have to do to escape his father’s shadows?

Nys’ victory in Benidorm was not an isolated success. Earlier this winter, he claimed the European Championship title, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure on a challenging course. The event tested riders with its demanding climbs and muddy conditions, but Nys kept a cool head and delivered when it mattered most.

At the Belgian National Championships, Nys faced another significant test. A poor start could have derailed his chances, but he showcased his fighting spirit by clawing his way back to the front, and the emotional victory was a pivotal moment in his career. Reflecting on the achievement, he described it as an “incredible way to win my first Belgian title.” Winning the national title is especially meaningful in Belgium, a country where cyclocross is a national obsession, and it cemented his place as a future leader in the sport.

These accomplishments highlight Nys’ growing consistency and determination across a variety of terrains and conditions, whilst his adaptability and technical skills are quickly becoming defining traits of his racing style. With each race, his ability to analyse courses, manage his efforts, and position himself effectively for victory is improving, even if there definitely is still more to learn. It is these qualities that set great riders apart, and Nys is showing that he has what it takes to compete at the very highest level.

Thibau’s father, Sven Nys, is one of the most decorated cyclocross riders in history. Sven’s accolades include two world championships (2005 and 2013), nine Belgian national titles, and an astounding 50 World Cup victories. In addition to his cyclocross dominance, Sven was also a five-time Belgian national mountain bike champion, and he was a true master of the bike off the road. Such a legacy inevitably brings comparisons, and Thibau has faced scrutiny from fans and the media alike.

The expectations placed on Thibau have been immense, with some already speculating about whether he could surpass Sven’s record of nine national titles. This type of speculation has drawn criticism, with some commentators labelling it as “worryingly ridiculous” given Thibau’s young age and the competitive nature of the sport. Nevertheless, the comparisons are a constant in his career. Thibau, however, has shown remarkable focus and professionalism in handling the pressure, and he has repeatedly stated that his goal is not to replicate his father’s career but to establish his own identity as a rider.

Sven’s influence on Thibau’s career is undeniable. As the manager of the Baloise - Trek Lions team, Sven has provided guidance and support, helping Thibau navigate the complexities of professional cycling. Yet, Sven has also allowed his son the space to grow and develop his own style, understanding the importance of letting Thibau forge his own path.

But there is one area in which we think Thibau already has more potential than his legendary father.

While Sven Nys’ career was defined by his cyclocross and mountain biking prowess, Thibau has shown potential for success on the road, an area where his father did not excel. His road racing performances have drawn attention, and his development in this discipline is progressing faster than many expected. Thibau’s skill and endurance, combined with his tactical awareness and versatility, makes him well-suited to one-day races and shorter stage races, and we hope to see more of him on the biggest stages on the road in 2025.

Experts and fans alike are optimistic about his future on the road. Some even view him as a potential star in the mould of Wout van Aert or Mathieu van der Poel, both of whom have successfully transitioned between cyclocross and road racing. Of course it is very early to compare him with these legends, but if Thibau continues to develop his road racing skills, he could become a dual-discipline star, capable of excelling in both cyclocross and the WorldTour peloton.

This potential has been bolstered by his performances in under-23 road races, where he has demonstrated an impressive ability to adapt to different types of courses. His team, Baloise Trek Lions, is also supportive of his ambitions to explore road racing, ensuring that he receives the necessary resources and opportunities to develop his talents further. It remains to be seen how far he can go on the road, but the early signs are promising.

Looking ahead, the Cyclocross World Championships loom large on the calendar. While Mathieu van der Poel remains the overwhelming favourite to claim his record equalling seventh world title, Nys has positioned himself as the most likely challenger. His recent form suggests he could secure the silver medal, a remarkable achievement given the strength of the field.

The World Championships represent a new challenge for Nys. Competing against Van der Poel, and other top riders on the biggest stage will test his mental and physical strength. Although dethroning Van der Poel at this stage might be a step too far, Nys’ performances this season have shown that he has the potential to challenge the dominance of the sport’s big two in the years to come. His victories and growing confidence indicate that his rise is only just beginning.

A strong result at the World Championships would also signal a changing of the guard in cyclocross. While Van der Poel and Van Aert have dominated for nearly a decade, the emergence of riders like Nys suggests that the next generation is ready to take up the mantle if they show any sign of faltering. For Nys, the World Championships are an opportunity to further establish himself as a contender and to continue building momentum for the future.

And we’re not hanging the gold medal around Van der Poel’s neck just yet. After all, cyclocross is a sport where anything could happen, even to someone as good as the Dutchman.

Thibau Nys’ journey so far has been a show of his talent, determination, and ability to rise to the occasion. In a sport steeped in tradition and dominated by iconic figures, the young Belgian is steadily building a name for himself. By winning major titles and proving his ability to compete against the best in the world, he is showing that he is more than just the son of a legend. He’s got a long way to go yet, and he is still rough around the edges, but the 2024/2025 winter has been a very good showing for him.

As he continues to mature and develop his skills, both on and off the bike, the future looks incredibly bright for Thibau Nys. Whether in the mud of a cyclocross course or the tarmac of a road race, he has shown that he possesses the qualities needed to succeed at the highest level. While the comparisons to his father may never entirely disappear, Thibau is proving that he is capable of writing his own chapter in cycling history. With the support of his team, his family, and a growing fanbase, he is poised to become one of the defining figures of the next era of cycling.