News: Mathieu van der Poel

On Sunday, one of the most exciting riders of the spring, Mathieu van der Poel, will ride his last road race of the spring but he has made so much impression in recent weeks that he is already top favorite for the Amstel Gold Race.

News: Mathieu van der Poel

From Sporza …

On Sunday, one of the most exciting riders of the spring, Mathieu van der Poel, will rider his last road race of the spring but he has made so much impression in recent weeks that he is already top favorite for the Amstel Gold Race.

Pic: Getty Images

“I wouldn’t call myself a top favorite, but I can agree with being one of the favorites” says the cyclocross and road star.

This spring, Mathieu van der Poel has not only amazed the cycling enthusiasts but also himself. “I had hoped to be there in all classics, but to always end up so close (to winning) is also beyond my expectations,” says the winner of Dwars door Vlaanderen and Brabantse Pijl. “I was most surprised in the Tour of Flanders. That I could still return after my fall and ride the final on the Paterberg and Kwaremont. Also because that race is so long. Shorter races I was not afraid of but I had never done those longer courses and I enjoyed it.

“Favorite for Sunday, I can agree with that. But top favorite maybe not, there are still riders who have proven more in that kind of races than me. Alaphilippe in particular impressed me. I think he is currently the best rider in the peloton. It’s nice that I can ride against someone like that. Van Avermaet is also good on such a course. The weather is good on Sunday and then Greg is always good. Gilbert has made an impression again in Paris-Roubaix. Add to that the climbers of Astana and Movistar and you know there are a lot of contenders. ”

On approaches from other teams wanting his name on their roster, he says “There are indeed a few teams that have contacted me”, Van der Poel admits. “A few big teams, although I won’t mention names.” Is Patrick Lefevere of Deceuninck-Quick Step one of the interested teams? “Patrick knows our dad a little too so it makes sense that there has been contact. But I have let all the teams know that they have to wait for the time being. I am still under contract until 2023.”

In addition to Corendon-Circus, Van der Poel also wants to remain loyal to cyclocross. “I think it’s a good preparation anyway, because it will make you explosive. If you can combine this with endurance training afterwards, that’s a good mix.”

From Sporza