CYCLING’S GREATEST RIVALRY RETURNS: Van der Poel and Van Aert face off once more in an epic cyclocross showdown this winter, with five thrilling clashes ahead. Full details below ⤵️
The highly anticipated cyclocross rivalry between Mathieu van der Poel and Wout van Aert is set to ignite once again. The two riders, known for their explosive performances on both the road and in cyclocross, are about to face off in a series of thrilling races this winter. Their first showdown will take place at the Antwerp Cyclocross World Cup on December 20, marking the beginning of a five-race series that will feature these cycling titans.
Their rivalry is one of the most exciting in the sport’s history, dating back to their junior days in 2012 when they claimed gold and silver in the cyclocross World Championships. Since then, they have battled across various disciplines, sharing mutual respect but also fierce competition. While there is a camaraderie between Van der Poel and Tadej Pogačar, their relationship is more reserved—marked by brief nods and handshakes rather than friendship.
This winter, both riders will compete in multiple events. Van der Poel will debut in the Namur World Cup race on December 14, with Van Aert following at the Antwerp World Cup on December 20. Other key races include the X20 Trofee events in Hofstade and Loenhout, the Exact Cross in Mol, and the Zonhoven round of the World Cup. Fans and media alike can expect heightened interest as these rivals once again go head-to-head.
While both riders are highly talented, they have different strengths. Van Aert is a more powerful climber, having helped his teammate Jonas Vingegaard win the Tour de France in 2022 and 2023. In contrast, Van der Poel, with his lean build, excels in classics. He has won eight monuments, including three editions of the Tour of Flanders and Paris-Roubaix, while Van Aert has won just one—San Remo in 2020.
However, Van Aert is focused on improving his classics performance in 2026, hoping for a clean run after injuries derailed his 2024 season. He aims to conquer Flanders and Roubaix, which have eluded him thus far. Meanwhile, Van der Poel is sticking to his cyclocross commitments, with a packed schedule of up to 13 races this winter.
The contrast in their approaches to the cyclocross season—Van Aert opting for fewer races to prepare for the classics, while Van der Poel races frequently—could give Van der Poel an early advantage. However, if Van Aert can clinch a victory or two in their head-to-head clashes, it will boost his momentum heading into the road season.
Ultimately, the outcome of their cyclocross encounters will have a lasting impact on their 2026 campaigns, with Van Aert hoping to finally capture his elusive classics victories and Van der Poel continuing his dominance in the sport.