“When I attack, everyone reacts immediately” – Mathieu van der Poel frustrated with another Dauphiné near miss

**“When I attack, everyone reacts immediately” — Mathieu van der Poel frustrated with another Dauphiné near miss**

*June 10, 2025 — Grenoble, France*

Dutch superstar Mathieu van der Poel cut a visibly frustrated figure at the finish line of Stage 6 of the Critérium du Dauphiné, after yet another high-octane performance failed to deliver a stage win. The Alpecin-Deceuninck rider, known for his explosive attacks and aggressive racing style, found himself heavily marked once again by rivals, leaving him without a breakthrough despite being one of the most animated riders of the race.

“When I attack, everyone reacts immediately,” Van der Poel said in the post-stage interview. “I can’t make a move without triggering a full-team response. It’s as if I’m wearing a beacon. I’m strong, but I can’t do it alone.”

Van der Poel launched two daring solo attempts during the mountainous 170 km route from Hauterives to Le Collet d’Allevard, a stage defined by relentless climbs and searing heat. Each time he surged ahead, rival teams including Ineos Grenadiers and UAE Team Emirates sprang into action, neutralizing his efforts within minutes.

“Tactically, it’s tough,” he admitted. “If I wait, I risk missing the moment. If I go, I’m chased down instantly. It’s not a complaint — it’s just the reality of racing when you’ve built a reputation for going all-in.”

This isn’t the first time Van der Poel has struggled to convert his strength into stage victories at the Dauphiné. Last year, he suffered a similar fate, often animating stages only to be caught in the final kilometers. His aggressive riding style — thrilling for fans and commentators alike — makes him a marked man in the peloton.

Despite his frustrations, Van der Poel was quick to credit his team for their unwavering support and praised the overall quality of the field. “The legs are good, and the team has been brilliant. But the level here is incredibly high. Everyone’s sharpening up for the Tour. There’s no margin for error.”

When asked whether the repeated near misses affect his confidence ahead of the Tour de France, Van der Poel was philosophical. “It’s part of the game. If anything, it motivates me more. I’d rather be the guy they’re watching than the one they forget.”

Alpecin-Deceuninck’s sport director, Christoph Roodhooft, echoed the sentiment. “Mathieu is one of the most dynamic riders in the world. The fact that everyone watches him so closely is a testament to his impact. Sooner or later, the door will open — and when it does, he’ll take it.”

With just two stages left in the Dauphiné and the Grand Départ in Florence approaching fast, Van der Poel remains a key figure in the build-up to cycling’s biggest stage.

“This isn’t the last you’ll see of me,” he said with a determined look. “The fire’s still burning.”