The wait for cyclocross gold goes on for Belgium: "Mathieu was in control"

Belgium secured two medals in the men’s elite race at the cyclocross world championships, but neither was the right colour. Mathieu van der Poel dominated the race to claim a record-equalling seventh title, with Wout van Aert finishing second and Thibau Nys taking third. Belgium’s wait for an elite men’s world title continues, with their last victory coming in 2018 when Van Aert triumphed.

Belgian coach Angelo De Clercq spoke to Wielerflits about the race. Van der Poel immediately seized control from the first lap, while Van Aert had to fight his way through the field after starting from the fourth row. His race was further complicated when he encountered difficulties in the first corner. "He was super far, he was completely stuck in that corner. There were only four men behind him," said De Clercq. "I think that's a shame. This was probably the best he could do, but I just think it's a shame that he didn't get into the race."

After just one lap, Van Aert already trailed Van der Poel by 45 seconds. Though the Dutchman’s advantage fluctuated slightly, the gap remained the same by the end of the eight-lap race. Despite finishing well behind the world champion, Van Aert’s performance remained impressive.

"I think Mathieu was in control. He also had a flat tire. It's hard to say whether Wout is getting closer or whether Mathieu is just in control. Mathieu accelerated at times and then recovered. It's just a shame that there was no duel in the first two laps."

Reflecting on Nys’ performance, De Clercq was full of praise for the young Belgian. "I think Thibau has had a fantastic season. He has become European and Belgian champion and now he is on the World Cup podium with Mathieu and Wout. That is fantastic."

De Clercq was also satisfied with Belgium’s overall results at the championships. "I had hoped for four medals beforehand and we got four. We didn't have the top favorite anywhere, while the favorite won in every category, because the course was so selective. Is four medals too little for a cross-country like Belgium? I don't think so. We are not the only countries that are involved in cyclo-cross. We also notice that the French and Italians are strong in the youth category. The balance is positive anyway."