Cyclisme Star Vows to Reach Peak Performance
Mathieu van der Poel said he feels more like the favorite in Roubaix than at the Tour of Flanders. He made the remarks during a Thursday press conference.
Race profile and strengths
The three-time defending Roubaix champion says the course rewards both power and bike handling. As a cyclisme star, Van der Poel vows to reach peak performance for Roubaix.
He leads the Alpecin squad and holds eight cyclo-cross world titles. Those credentials underpin his confidence heading into the classics.
Approach to the cobbles
Van der Poel explained that managing the cobbles requires careful line choice and restraint. Riding too aggressively raises the chance of a crash.
He trains on the northern Roubaix route only during the official reconnaissance each year. He avoids unnecessary cobble sessions in routine training.
In races the cobbles become more enjoyable thanks to speed and the crowd. Adrenaline and high pace alter the whole experience.
Main rivals and outlook
He said the scenario is more open than at the Tour of Flanders and that Tadej Pogacar will have fewer certainties. Other names must be considered beyond Pogacar.
- Tadej Pogacar — technically strong and in top condition.
- Wout van Aert — proven Classics contender on the cobbles.
- Filippo Ganna — powerful rider with time-trial strength.
- Mads Pedersen — consistently strong on cobbles; impressed at the Ronde.
Van der Poel noted Pedersen’s form at the Tour of Flanders. To beat Pogacar he must be at his absolute best, but a win is never guaranteed.
Press conference remarks came on Thursday. Reported by Filmogaz.com.
