"The Belgians performed strongly collectively" - Sven Vanthourenhout praises Belgian tactics leading to Michael Vanthourenhout European Champion title

Belgian depth surely played a role in the victory of Michael Vanthourenhout at the Cyclocross European Championships. Whilst his teammates could not match the chasers later in the race, the winning gap was created very early on and with assistance from his teammates.

“It should certainly be emphasized that the Belgians performed strongly collectively. Certainly the young men took their responsibility and did nothing wrong in the beginning," coach Sven Vanthourenhout told Sporza. “It was very nice to see that the other riders from other teams also missed the moment and did not ride towards Vanthourenhout. That gave Michael a lot of confidence. I am also convinced that in the future it will be in the other direction. Michael showed in the second half of the race that he could hold on, but I had some doubts about that in the beginning.”

Vanthourenhout performed very strongly in the muddy and grim conditions, as he had in the past, to take his second consecutive European title. He held off Cameron Mason, Lars van der Haar and Pim Ronhaar who initially cut his gap in half, with a consistent performance and technically perfect ride in the very treacherous conditions. Although he is often overshadowed by the 'big three' and compatriots such as Eli Iserbyt, Laurens Sweeck and now Thibau Nys, he has gathered another high level title to his already big palmarès.

“Michael is gradually building up a fine track record in his own way. He won three titles in just over a year and that is very strong," he continues, in reference to the Belgian title he currently has. "Especially in a generation like this. You have to take your moments when they come and he does that. I didn't put him at the top of my list, but it is and remains Michael Vanthourenhout. That is obvious."