Cyclocross world champion Fem van Empel admitted she wasn’t at her best during the Superprestige Ruddervoorde, finishing second behind Ceylin del Carmen Alvarado. Despite competing for a podium spot, Van Empel, of Team Visma-Lease a Bike, never looked like a serious contender for the victory.
“It wasn’t my day, I had little concentration,” the 22-year-old told Wielerflits after the race.
Van Empel, who claimed the World Cyclocross Championship titles in 2023 and 2024, acknowledged Alvarado's strength on the day. “Ceylin was incredibly strong. That’s part of it and is something to work on for the upcoming races. I did have a good final lap, I showed that I don’t give up easily.”
Reflecting on her performance, Van Empel remained pragmatic. "It can always happen. I am only human and cannot win everything," she said. "I am focusing more on a bit more work this period, so I may be a bit less fresh. But that does not take away from the fact that Ceylin deserved to win today. I am therefore not disappointed."
Despite the setback, Van Empel’s strong mindset and drive to improve will make her one to watch in the upcoming cyclocross season.
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