Van der Poel Tears Up on Skis and in Lambos: From World Champion on the Bike to Drift King in the Alps
Mathieu van der Poel has been dominating the world of cyclocross, and after clinching his seventh world championship title in Liévin last Sunday, he’s earned a well-deserved break. The Dutch cyclist, who also holds 12 rainbow jerseys across all cycling disciplines, is currently trading his bike for skis as he enjoys a winter getaway in Livigno, Italy, alongside his girlfriend Roxanne Bertels.
It’s been a busy and physically demanding winter for Van der Poel. Despite suffering a rib injury, he powered through and participated in eight cyclo-cross races, winning each one with impressive ease. The highlight of his winter came last Sunday when he took his seventh world title in cyclo-cross, equaling the legendary Erik De Vlaeminck’s record. It’s been a season of triumphs for the all-rounder, and what better way to celebrate than with a ski trip?
Van der Poel has been active on social media, sharing his holiday fun with fans. Alongside Bertels and a group of close friends, the Alpecin-Deceuninck rider made his way to Livigno, a picturesque mountain resort in Italy. The snow-covered slopes provided a perfect setting for Van der Poel to recharge ahead of what promises to be a busy spring racing season.
However, a traditional ski holiday isn’t quite enough for the cycling star. While many might opt for après-ski relaxation, Van der Poel is making the most of his time on the snow in a different way. Fans were treated to some spectacular images on his social media as he took a Lamborghini for a spin on the icy mountain roads of Livigno. Sponsored by Lamborghini, Van der Poel drove several high-performance cars across the frozen terrain, capturing the attention of his followers with his thrilling ice-driving stunts. Lamborghini Antwerp even shared footage of the cyclist having a blast behind the wheel, showcasing his versatility and adventurous spirit beyond the cycling world.
Yet, not everyone is convinced that Van der Poel’s skiing and car escapades are the wisest choice. With his busy spring season fast approaching, many have questioned whether a winter holiday is the best way to prepare for the intense challenges ahead. Former professional Greg Van Avermaet, who, like Van der Poel, has conquered the Hell of the North, expressed concerns about the timing of the break. As the spring classics loom on the horizon, including prestigious races like Paris-Nice, Tirreno-Adriatico, and Milan-Sanremo, some critics wonder if Van der Poel is pushing his luck by indulging in winter fun.
Despite these concerns, the 28-year-old seems unfazed. After all, this isn’t just a typical cycling season for Van der Poel—it’s a moment to relax and reset before tackling one of the most challenging periods in professional cycling. Van der Poel’s holiday spirit appears to be shared by fellow competitor Thibau Nys, who also enjoyed a skiing trip in the Alps following his bronze-medal finish in Liévin.
As Van der Poel unwinds on the slopes and behind the wheel, it’s clear that this break won’t last long. Soon enough, he’ll be back in the saddle, ready to tackle the spring classics with the same focus and drive that earned him his world championship title. But for now, it’s all about enjoying the snow, the Lambos, and the moments of relaxation before the intense racing season begins.
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