Belgium refuse to accept defeat at European Cyclocross Championships: “Anything less than the title would be a disappointment”

This weekend, the European Cyclocross Championships will take place in Pontevedra, Spain. While Belgium heads to the event without its top star, Wout van Aert, the national team remains confident in their strength and is setting their sights on nothing less than victory. National coach Angelo De Clercq made the team’s ambitions clear, telling Sporza, “We start with eight strong men and anything less than the title would be a disappointment.”

Leading the Belgian squad is reigning champion Michael Vanthourenhout, who has a reputation for rising to the occasion in championship settings. “At championships, Michael often becomes the best version of himself. There is a big chance that he will end up on the highest podium for the third time,” De Clercq commented, highlighting Vanthourenhout’s potential to defend his title.

Belgium’s talent pool has already made waves this season, with a variety of riders claiming victories. “We have already had a lot of different winners this season. That says enough. I expect a number of Belgians to fight for the title,” De Clercq said, expressing optimism about his team’s depth and versatility.

On the women’s side, however, De Clercq acknowledged the formidable challenge posed by the Dutch team, particularly Fem van Empel, who is a clear favourite. “The Dutch team starts with the most outspoken favourites,” he admitted. “I hope for a super day for our women, but we have to remain realistic.”

As the Belgian team prepares to compete in Pontevedra, the pressure is on to bring home gold, with high expectations for both the men’s and women’s races. While the men aim for the podium's top spot, the women face a tough battle but hope to rise to the occasion against strong competition.