Scandal turned strategy: Will Dutch cycling federation's forest retreat bring Olympic success?

It all went wrong almost two years ago in Australia. Mathieu van der Poel was determined to become world champion in Wollongong but had a difficult night after spending it in jail. Van der Poel was accused of harassing children. With this incident in mind, the Dutch cycling federation is taking matters into its own hands ahead of the Olympic Games. The riders are sleeping in seclusion, in a forest near Paris.

In an interview with AD, some of those involved commented on this move. Demi Vollering, who loves peace and nature, is pleased. "I just returned from a high-altitude training camp in France, enjoying the tranquility of the Alps. When we explored the time trial course in the city center on Wednesday, you immediately noticed the chaos and busyness. Just one day there, and the taxi drivers are already angry," says the reigning Tour de France champion. "And training here in the forest is wonderful."

Performance over everything else: some handle rest better than others

Still, Vollering is also curious about the atmosphere of the hustle and bustle. "These are my second Olympics, after Tokyo, but I have never seen an Olympic village from the inside. In Tokyo, we were in lockdown, and now we are here in peace. I do want to visit the Olympic village next week. You want to experience that atmosphere too." Ellen van Dijk already knows that atmosphere well. "Of course, such an Olympic vibe is fun, but I also know how distracting it can be. I’ve experienced it before and am very happy that I can prepare for the competitions in peace."

Puck Pieterse, on the other hand, prefers more stimulation but accepts the situation. "I will go check out the village after my race on Sunday. But here, we also have a game room where we can play darts, table tennis and billiards. I’ll have fun." Time trialist Daan Hoole is also a bit disappointed but understands the situation. "I have mixed feelings. My first Olympics are personally very special, but I understand the decision from a sport's perspective. Performance takes precedence over everything else."