He made his debut in gravel, had a flat tire, came back, and won with a wheel ahead of Nys: Stuyven secures European Championship victory in home region

The European Gravel Championship, which also served as the Belgian Gravel Championship, played right into Jasper Stuyven's strengths. The 31-year-old Lidl-Trek rider had never competed in a gravel race before but managed to achieve a remarkable solo victory. What's even more remarkable is that Stuyven had to overcome a series of setbacks along the way, making his win all the more impressive.

Alex Colman appeared to be on course for a dominant solo victory in the picturesque landscapes around Oud-Heverlee and Leuven. However, with just 25 kilometers to go, Stuyven decided he'd had enough and launched an attack from an elite group that included world champion Gianni Vermeersch, Florian Vermeersch, and Tim Merlier. In no time, Stuyven caught up with Colman, who quickly realized that Stuyven was the stronger rider. It was game over for Colman, and the other top favorites lost sight of Stuyven until after the finish line. Symbolism enthusiasts had a special treat as Stuyven triumphed in his hometown and training ground.

Stuyven won EK gravel (and BK gravel) with a wheel ahead of Thibau Nys

"I triumphed on a surface that is entirely new to me," the winner shared with the press, who were gathered for the occasion, including IDLProCycling.com. Furthermore, the competition was exceptionally fierce, making this victory even more satisfying. "Besides, I've earned two jerseys," he added, alluding to the Belgian Championship title that granted him the opportunity to ascend the ceremonial podium twice, to the tune of the Brabançonne.

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During a critical juncture in the race, Stuyven experienced a puncture, and it took an unusually long time to replace his wheel. Almost everyone, including his most devoted fans, thought the chances of the good-natured athlete in his thirties had vanished. However, this couldn't have been further from the truth: Stuyven swiftly rejoined the elite group that had formed in the meantime. "My own wheels hadn't returned from the other equipment post yet, so I had to make do with a wheel from Thibau Nys (a teammate)," he explained. "Additionally, I was fortunate that they weren't racing at full speed at the front."

Approaching the final lap – the short 28-kilometer circuit – Stuyven still wasn't convinced he could secure a victory, despite his impressive comeback. "I thought I was riding for a podium spot, as that last challenging lap remained ahead," he admitted. "It wasn't ideal, but it went much better than I expected. In the closing kilometers, I was undoubtedly enduring significant suffering. The fact that I was competing in my hometown, with many supporters coming out to cheer me on, provided a tremendous boost. Winning in front of my local fans makes this victory even more special."

Paris-Tours or World Cup gravel? Stuyven doesn't know yet

During an interview with IDLProCycling.com in June, which took place during the Baloise Belgium Tour, Stuyven reflected on his year and expressed some disappointment. He mentioned, "This year, I felt like I was good enough, but things didn't always go my way. There were times when I suffered a poorly-timed puncture or took a fall at the worst possible moment." Interestingly, Stuyven used almost the same words to describe his feelings after winning the European Gravel Championship. He noted, "Many times, I had the sensation and the legs to make a significant impact, but it didn't always materialize. Something always seemed to go awry. So, there was definitely frustration. That's why winning two titles is truly gratifying."

Stuyven achieved victory immediately in his official gravel debut, guaranteeing his automatic qualification for the World Gravel Championship, scheduled to take place a week later in Veneto, Italy. However, Stuyven faces a choice on Sunday, October 8, as Paris-Tours is also on his initial agenda. When asked about his decision, he replied that he would need to assess both options and discuss them with the team. "Both are prestigious races, which naturally makes the decision more challenging."