Gerben Kuypers, before facing the European Cyclocross Championships: "I expect very tough conditions"

The cyclocross world is looking forward to the European Championships in Pontchateau, France, where the best riders will battle it out in an exciting competition. While the Belgian team features big names such as Thibau Nys, Eli Iserbyt, Michael Vanthourenhout and Laurens Sweeck, one of the names that is attracting attention at this competition is the young and promising Belgian cyclist, Gerben Kuypers.

Through his Circus-ReUz-Technord team communications, Kuypers shares his thoughts on the European Championships in France and his first weeks of the cyclocross season. The young rider, who had an outstanding first road season in the Intermarché-Circus-Wanty structure, is excited about his recent cyclocross performance.

"After an excellent first road season in the Intermarché-Circus-Wanty structure, I was able to continue in this vein in my first month in cross-country. I have taken a big step forward. Last season I was not selected for the European Championships, now I can aspire to play a role, a world of difference," comments Kuypers.

The Belgian cyclist arrives at this important event with a positive attitude and in excellent physical shape. Kuypers considers the course, with its hilly terrain and short accelerations, to be ideal for his abilities. In addition, rain is expected, which will add an additional challenge with muddy terrain. "I expect very tough conditions, so we will be forced to race at full speed for an hour. In Beringen and Ruddervoorde I proved I can handle it, by rejoining from the back after a long chase," says the cyclist.

Gerben Kuypers made the strategic decision to skip the Koppenbergcross in order to arrive in the best condition for the European Championships. "In difficult conditions, it's important to start from scratch and have all the strength," he explained.

"I want to start the race with a good start. Then, with my current form, anything is possible. My ambition is to finish in the top five. But a championship is always special... In my wildest dreams, I dare to follow in the footsteps of our sports director Bart Wellens by putting on the jersey on the podium," Kuypers concluded.

Article written by Juan Larra.