Wout van Aert’s eagerly awaited cyclocross return and his first potential clash of the season with Mathieu van der Poel at the Exact Cross Loenhout on December 27, 2024, remain a possibility despite recent setbacks. Van Aert, a three-time world cyclocross champion, had to delay his season debut after falling ill, reportedly catching the bug from his children. This illness forced him to withdraw from the Superprestige event in Mol on December 23, disappointing fans eager to see him back in action.
Fortunately, van Aert’s team, Visma | Lease a Bike, has provided encouraging updates about his recovery. The Belgian superstar resumed light training in the days leading up to Loenhout, signaling optimism for his participation. This event is a key highlight of the cyclocross calendar, known for its technical challenges and electrifying atmosphere, and it traditionally draws the sport’s top competitors.
The rivalry between van Aert and van der Poel has defined modern cyclocross. Van der Poel, fresh off a string of dominant victories, including the Zonhoven World Cup and Zilvermeercross, is in top form. The Dutchman expressed his eagerness to compete against van Aert, acknowledging that their head-to-head battles elevate the sport and captivate fans worldwide.
While van Aert’s health and readiness remain closely monitored, his return at Loenhout would add significant drama to the event. The two riders’ contrasting styles and fierce competitiveness have produced some of the most memorable moments in cyclocross history. If van Aert is fit to race, Loenhout promises to deliver another thrilling chapter in their storied rivalry.
As the clock ticks down to December 27, fans and organizers are hopeful for van Aert’s participation. Whether he can challenge van der Poel after his illness remains uncertain, but his mere presence on the starting line would set the stage for an electrifying race, reigniting one of the greatest rivalries in cycling.
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