Mathieu van der Poel won the first Cyclocross duel with Wout van Aert in Mol, demonstrating impressive superiority.
No rivals for Van der Poel
There was no rival for Mathieu van der Poel in the sands of Mol. The world champion attacked after only three laps and defeated Wout van Aert, who finished second, by over a minute. Van der Poel was so fast that only 10 cyclists managed to reach the finish line, due to the 80% rule.
Disqualifications in the Exact Cross
“I felt very good, and I think I rode very well, especially in the sand,” said Van der Poel in the quick interview. “So, you can quickly make a difference. I also managed my laps well. I had fun today.”
He puts into perspective the fact that he disqualified 51 cyclists from the race. Thus, only 10 cyclists had their times recorded. “It was a short and fast lap, so the 80% rule is quickly applied. I had a good feeling, rode at a good pace without exceeding the limit.”
First duel with Wout Van Aert
Van der Poel not only won in Mol but also emerged victorious in the first duel with his eternal rival. “People are more concerned about it than we are. Certainly, Wout thinks the same way. He has stated several times that winter and cyclocross are a secondary matter. He’s not in great shape. What he does is logical and smart.”
“Certainly, I cannot rule out that he will make it very difficult for me in some cyclocross competitions. No doubt, we will also win some more races, I’m sure,” concluded Mathieu van der Poel.