“Now I can already think about where I could try something” - Michael Vanthourenhout spots key difference he hopes can help him to win the Belgian cyclocross championships

Michael Vanthourenhout, the 31-year-old European Champion in 2022 and 2023 and former national champion, is gearing up for this weekend’s Belgian National Cyclocross Championships. Having finished on the podium four times in the past six years, Vanthourenhout is aiming to claim the top step again this Sunday.

Ahead of the race, Vanthourenhout conducted a reconnaissance of the course in Limburg and noticed significant changes, "They have added a hill here and there and a dangerous descent. That makes it harder to stay close to another rider," he told Sporza.

The Pauwels Sauzen - Cibel Clementines rider sees the modifications as beneficial, both for riders and spectators, "It's better now. Not only for me but for the entire peloton. There's a bit more excitement in it, and that's also nice for the viewers." Vanthourenhout predicts an exciting race but expects tactics to play a decisive role, "We will not go with a big group to the last straight line, as it often is in Zolder."

Reflecting on his preparation, he added, "I found the trip to Limburg helpful because I'm glad I've seen the course. Now I can already think about where I could try something."

Vanthourenhout acknowledges the strength of his rivals, including Nys, Sweeck, and Vandeputte, and expects them to thrive on the challenging course: "Nys, Sweeck, and Vandeputte can handle this course perfectly. Hopefully, we can end that."