2025 begins with an MVDP - Van Aert duel
The new year starts wonderfully, with the first clash between Mathieu Van Der Poel (1000) and Wout Van Aert (1200) in this season's Cyclocross World Cup. Although Van Der Poel skipped the X20 Trofee race in Baal due to rib discomfort, it seems clear that he arrives in better shape than his eternal rival, with a perfect record of victories (5 out of 5) so far this season. Meanwhile, Van Aert has only participated in one race this season, finishing fourth.
Course
The Dendermonde circuit is known as one of the toughest on the calendar, as mud is usually abundant. Additionally, the stairs and the sand section are long, further adding to the challenge in a race where cyclists' endurance is often key.
Favorites - Women's Race
Fem Van Empel (1200), Lucinda Brand (1000), Ceylin del Carmen Alvarado (1200), Puck Pieterse (1200), Zoe Backstedt (600), Marie Schreiber (800), and Kata Blanka Vas (800) are the main contenders for the women's race.
Favorites - Men's Race
As mentioned, Mathieu Van Der Poel (1000) is the top favorite for the men's race, and Wout Van Aert (1200) should be his biggest rival. Other notable contenders include Eli Iserbyt (1200), Michael Vanthourenhout (1000), Niels Vandeputte (1000), Laurens Sweeck (1200), Thibau Nys (600), Pim Ronhaar (800), Lars Van Der Haar (1200), Toon Aerts (200), Joran Wyseure (400), and Felipe Orts (600).
Photo: © UCI Cyclo-cross World Cup