"I was able to finally take the step thanks to my mental coach" - European champion Jente Michels reveals the secret of his success

Jente Michels has won his first international U23s title last week. The 20-year-old European champion is quietly working his way to the top at Alpecin-Deceuninck, but still sees plenty of room for improvement, he tells WielerFlits.

"I am someone who often has a lot of stress before a championship. It never sat well with me either. A bad start, bad luck... I always came across something. In terms of level, I knew that I belonged to the best U23 riders and was therefore capable of taking the title, but you never know when stress will take over again."

Michels was prepared this time. "In terms of my abilities, I felt I was getting a little better every year, but mentally I still had to take that step. That happened this season, primarily thanks to the mental coach the team recommended me. That tip was invaluable."

The third-year U23 also sees room for improvement in other areas. "Last summer I rode the mountain bike, and only two races on the road. I felt afterwards that it might have been a little too little. In the meantime, I have discussed with the team that I will be able to do a wider range of road races next year. I have the profile of a stage racer, so why wouldn't I go for a classification in races like the Tour Alsace and Valle d'Aosta? I was good on the road in the juniors, so I should be able to reach a high level in both disciplines."