"You know that Van Aert comes to win, that only improves his focus" - Adrie van der Poel reacts to Mathieu's historic cyclocross world championship win

Yesterday Cyclocross history was made in Liévin as Mathieu van der Poel secured his seventh Cyclocross World Championship title in fantastic fashion. From the very first lap, the Dutchman stamped his authority on the race, distancing the competition and equalling the all-time record for most rainbow jerseys in cyclocross.

The much-anticipated battle between Van der Poel and his long-time rival Wout van Aert never fully materialised, as the Belgian had to settle for a distant second place and his wait for a first world title since 2018 goes on. Despite Van Aert's efforts, Van der Poel's aggressive tactics and superior form ensured a comprehensive victory.

His father, Adrie van der Poel, was present to witness the historic moment and shared his thoughts on the performance, believing Van Aert’s presence only served to further motivate his son.

Speaking to Wielerflits, Adrie van der Poel reflected on Mathieu's race strategy and preparation:

"Apparently it was the right tactic. This course is so difficult, you better be at the front to stay out of danger. I didn't even notice that he had a puncture. I heard from the organization that the surface was getting worse and worse," he said.

He also expressed admiration for how his son meticulously prepares for major championships.

"It remains special, especially because it's the seventh. It's amazing how he always manages to prepare himself. He was really good this year, but a lot less last year. That's why he adjusted his preparation."

Van der Poel Sr. believes that the presence of Van Aert added to his son’s focus, “It is impressive how he deals with that surprise. You have a competitor, and you know that Van Aert comes to win. In the end, that only improved his focus, so it was mainly an advantage. He did not worry about it, in recent years you really can't get him nervous anymore."

Despite the historic achievement, Adrie van der Poel emphasized that his son is still focused on future goals, “He just wants to win, whether it’s the seventh or not. We’re not nonchalant about it, it’s fun of course, but you only really have the record if you win the eighth. There will also be a winter when he doesn’t cyclocross, because he also has to take the spring into account. That’s sometimes challenging."

He also acknowledged the risks involved in the race but credited Mathieu's early dominance for making a crucial difference, “Because of the weather, there’s a danger lurking around every corner, but he can also make gains there. Because he takes a lead in the first two laps, he can also race very differently,” said the former rider.