"It will be difficult to equal that, let alone to improve" - Iserbyt ambitious but cautious heading into World Cup debut following mega season

The Cyclocross World Cup starts today in Waterloo, United States, and Eli Iserbyt is ready to begin the defense of his title.

In talks with Sporza ahead of the first big race of the season, he has said: "And this season for only two crosses that count for the World Cup in the US instead of three in 2021 (with Iowa at the time). Then Tabor follows on October 23 and we also go to Dublin. The moves are not wrong and cost a lot of money, but our prize money has not increased," he commented regarding the trip.

This has seen several riders opt out of the opening World Cup rounds, in order to favour longevity in what is still a long season with several months ahead. Iserbyt has goals in the classification however, and has made the trip alongside several other members of Pauwels Sauzen - Bingoal.

"However, it remains a nice classification to win. I could experience that last year," he continued. "I then had a grand year with two final classifications, including the Superrprestige and 14 victories. It will be difficult to equal that, let alone to improve."

As the Belgian had hinted, his goals are clear: "My goal this season, and the seasons before that was no different, is to win as many crosses as possible and to compete for the three classifications. The European Championship is also on my wish list, but first start those two rounds of the World Cup in America."