World champion Van der Poel shines in Namur

Mathieu van der Poel lived up to his favorite status in Namur. The world champion claimed victory after an intense battle with Thibau Nys and Michael Vanthourenhout.

The return of world champion Mathieu van der Poel (Alpecin-Deceuninck) was followed with great interest. Starting from the third row, the Dutchman began the race cautiously. The demanding course around the Citadel of Namur quickly caused a significant selection.

In the fourth of nine laps, a decisive lead group emerged. Lars van der Haar (Baloise Glowi Lions), Thibau Nys (Baloise Glowi Lions), Michael Vanthourenhout (Pauwels Sauzen – Altez Industriebouw Cycling Team) and Mathieu van der Poel made the strongest impression.

Behind them, Emiel Verstrynge (Crelan-Corendon), Niels Vandeputte (Alpecin-Deceuninck), Pim Ronhaar (Baloise Glowi Lions) and Joris Nieuwenhuis (Ridley Racing Team) did everything they could to bridge the gap to the leaders, but without success. They finished in positions five through eight respectively.

With three laps to go, Van der Haar ran into difficulty and was dropped. One lap later, he made his way back and took the initiative himself, but was soon caught by Van der Poel. In the seventh lap, Van der Poel then turned on the heat. Only Nys was able to follow, while Vanthourenhout kept the duo within sight.

In the penultimate lap, Nys took the lead and put Van der Poel under pressure. Neither rider gave an inch, taking considerable risks. Nys made a small mistake, and Van der Poel immediately capitalized. He never looked back and soloed to his sixth victory in Namur. With this win, Van der Poel becomes the record holder on the iconic Citadel course. Nys further extended his lead at the top of the World Cup standings.