Mathieu van der Poel Joins Benidorm World Cup After Racing Urge Prevails
Mathieu van der Poel has made a surprising last-minute decision to participate in the Benidorm round of the World Cup. This announcement came just two days after he indicated he would skip the event to focus on endurance training. The Alpecin-Premier Tech team confirmed his participation via social media, citing that his strong training week heightened his desire to race.
Benidorm World Cup Details
This event marks the only Spanish race in the World Cup cyclo-cross series. Van der Poel had emphasized the need for endurance training to prepare for the Spring Classics. However, his name had already appeared on the provisional start list, suggesting his potential return. He officially decided to race less than 24 hours before the competition.
Performance History
- Van der Poel has won every event he entered this cyclo-cross season.
- He claimed victory in the inaugural Benidorm race in 2023.
- In 2024, he finished fifth despite a crash, missing last year’s race.
Course Changes
The Benidorm course features significant modifications this year. It now includes:
- A new uphill start-finish zone following stairs.
- A 100-meter-long sandpit, altering the previous finish line section.
Organizers aim to create a more tactical and slower race compared to past editions.
Current Standings
In the World Cup standings, Van der Poel leads with 200 points, having won all five of his races this season. Thibau Nys holds second place, 10 points behind, while Michael Vanthourenhout stands third with 187 points.
Upcoming Races
Following the Benidorm race, Van der Poel is set to compete in events in Maasmechelen and Hoogerheide. He is also preparing for a record-breaking eighth cyclo-cross world title attempt in Hulst on February 1.
Despite the late decision, Van der Poel enters the Benidorm race as a top favorite, reflecting his exceptional performance this winter.
