As the spring road racing season approaches, cycling fans are eagerly awaiting a battle between the sport’s big three: Tadej Pogacar, Mathieu van der Poel, and Wout van Aert. However, this year’s build-up has been clouded by criticism directed at van der Poel’s decision to limit his participation in the early season classics, raising concerns among fans and pundits alike.
Van der Poel’s Limited Spring Schedule
Mathieu van der Poel, one of the sport’s biggest stars, recently revealed his spring racing calendar, but with notable gaps that left fans puzzled. While his participation in Milan-Sanremo, the Tour of Flanders, and Paris-Roubaix is confirmed, the rest of his schedule remains uncertain. Notably, he has decided to skip the Opening Weekend, including races like E3, Gent-Wevelgem, and Dwars door Vlaanderen. It’s become clear that he won’t be participating in all three of these key races, leading to criticism within the Dutch cycling community.
Dutch Criticism: “A Meager Program”
In a recent discussion on the cycling podcast Kop over Kop, former professional rider Bobbie Traksel voiced his disappointment over van der Poel’s sparse spring program. Traksel remarked, “It’s a shame because it is indeed a very meager program for Van der Poel in the spring.” He believes that the Dutch rider could be taking a broader approach to his schedule, especially given his immense talent and popularity.
Traksel then contrasted van der Poel’s approach with that of Wout van Aert, the Belgian powerhouse. “I am happy that Van Aert is still going a big step further,” said Traksel. “It is comparable to how Van Aert tackled it last year. Really peaking for certain races.” Van Aert, like van der Poel, has confirmed his participation in Milan-Sanremo, Flanders, and Roubaix, but he is also opting to ride a full range of spring classics, including Kuurne-Brussels-Kuurne and Dwars door Vlaanderen, events van der Poel is still unsure about.
Pogacar’s Full-On Spring Campaign
Meanwhile, Tadej Pogacar, the Slovenian sensation, continues to amaze with his all-encompassing schedule. While Pogacar is also skipping the Opening Weekend, his race calendar is packed with prestigious events, including Strade Bianche, Milan-Sanremo, E3, Gent-Wevelgem, and the Tour of Flanders, followed by Paris-Roubaix. Additionally, he’s expected to tackle the Ardennes classics: Amstel Gold Race, Flèche Wallonne, and Liège-Bastogne-Liège. Pogacar’s willingness to race frequently and aggressively this spring has earned him praise, though Traksel called it “extreme and bizarre,” especially considering the Slovenian’s goal of winning the Tour de France later this year.
The Bigger Picture
While van der Poel’s more selective approach to the spring classics might seem like a strategic move, it has sparked debate, particularly in his home country. His decision not to race as often as rivals Van Aert and Pogacar leaves many wondering if it’s the right path for a rider of his caliber. However, with his unparalleled talent and ability to shine in key races, van der Poel’s program might ultimately be a calculated choice to focus his efforts on the most important events of the spring. Only time will tell if his limited calendar will prove successful in maintaining his peak performance during the season’s biggest challenges.
