Van der Poel shares his candid opinions at the World Championship press conference on his cyclo-cross motivation, people who throw beer, Van Aert, and his schedule

"This was the most important race of my cyclo-cross season, so I'm thrilled with the win," the Dutchman reflected shortly after his impressive performance. He was quickly asked about Stybar, a fellow competitor he knows well, by the flash interviewer. "Zdenek is a great guy; I train a lot with him. I hope he keeps training so we can continue riding together," he told the Czech interviewer on duty.

The press conference, starting about forty-five minutes post-race, also kicked off with a question about Stybar by the Czech press. "I know Zdenek quite well since we've ridden together a lot. Especially during the pandemic, I saw him every day. He's had a fantastic career, and I'm sure we'll cycle together again. He lives close by, so as long as he keeps fit, I'll be joining him," he said, flashing a wide smile.

Van der Poel has never lost a race in Tábor, and 2024 was no exception, at the location where he secured his first world title in 2015. Back then, it took him well over an hour, but now he finished in under sixty minutes. "It might have been easier. I've been there every year, and this was one of the toughest editions. Normally it's challenging, but this time there was more mud. I actually enjoyed that.”

It certainly looked that way, as he established a commanding lead over his rivals in the first round. At that point, barring any mishaps, the World Championship title was essentially his. "The World Championships are the only thing that keeps me in cyclo-cross. It's the one race that really counts," Van der Poel expressed openly. "Winning a World Championship is always a unique challenge and has always been significant to me. It's impossible for me to win overall standings since I also dedicate time to road racing.

Now, with his sixth title, Van der Poel is nearing Erik De Vlaeminck's record of seven titles. He acknowledges that chasing this record plays a part in his motivation. "Perhaps that's why I continue in cyclo-cross. I'm not exactly sure what it is. I don't need to prove I'm the best. The talk has been about De Vlaeminck's record for quite some time, and ultimately, those achievements are what count."

On the other hand, he has also expressed doubts about his future in cyclo-cross on several occasions, including recently in Tábor. "It's not just about this season. I have a passion for cyclocross, but it extends beyond the race hour," Van der Poel explains. "All the associated aspects are equally energy-draining. At times, I question whether enduring beer showers at every race is worth it. It doesn't solely influence my decision, but I can't just accept it passively. Overall, it's an energy drain," he cites as an example.

"I can understand the behavior of the fans; that's not the problem. But here's the thing: the race itself might be the easiest part of the day, but everything around it adds up," says the racer who also enjoys staying in Spain. "Moreover, my focus is increasingly on road racing. Is only participating in the World Cyclocross Championships an option for me? No, it's not. When I compete in cyclocross, it has to be with the commitment I've shown this season."

With Wout van Aert not starting, the vibe in Tábor felt different, as many observed. "I might have missed competing against Wout. It's always challenging with him around. However, you can only compete against those who show up, and it's his choice to sit it out. I can only be happy with my world title."

So, what's next, Mathieu? With the World Championship in the bag, is it time to celebrate? "Hmm, I'm not sure. I have an early flight tomorrow, so celebrating might not be on the cards. I'll be taking a break from cycling, then it's straight into preparations for the classics, but we'll share more on that in a couple of weeks," Van der Poel wraps up.