"Both gentlemen have bigger goals" - Cyclocross legend Erwin Vervecken understands Van Aert & Van der Poel's reduced winter schedule

This winter, superstar duo Wout van Aert and Mathieu van der Poel's cyclocross appearances are set to be much scarcer than in previous years. Despite disappointment at this fact, cyclocross legend Erwin Vervecken understands the changing ambitions of the multi-discipline pair. 

"Both gentlemen have bigger goals and we have to respect those," admits the three-time cyclocross world champion, who now works for one of the cyclocross race organizers Golazo, in conversation with Het Nieuwsblad. "Despite their absence, there is quite a lot of interest, both from the public and VIPs."

Van Aert has revealed a six-race winter programme. Van der Poel meanwhile is still yet to officially announce anything despite much speculation. It seems though, that Vervecken will have to deal without the superstar pair in his race at Herentals for the fourth round of this season's X2O Badkamers Trofee.

In their absence though, the race is expected to count on a quality list of starters such as Eli Iserbyt, Michael Vanthourenhout, Niels Vandeputte and Toon Aerts. It's the latter that Vervecken especially is keen to back in action after his doping ban. "Many enthusiasts are looking forward to his first victory since his comeback," the 52-year-old Belgian concludes. "Who knows, he might be able to pull it off in Herentals."