Dutch cycling star Mathieu van der Poel has surprised fans by revealing a shift in strategy for the next phase of his career. Instead of his trademark early, aggressive attacks, he plans to adopt a more tactical approach—allowing rivals to think they’re in control before launching decisive counter-moves. He says this new mindset is about “playing the prey” to outsmart opponents, while working more closely with his Alpecin–Deceuninck teammates.
Despite his incredible success, 2025 has brought challenges. Van der Poel suffered a minor wrist fracture in a mountain bike race that forced him to miss altitude training ahead of the Tour de France, casting doubt on his participation. He also revealed that he battled a secret illness, needing antibiotics just before the Tour of Flanders, which may have affected his performance there.
Still, his season has delivered historic highs. He won Milan–San Remo for a second time, joining an elite group of riders with seven Monument Classics victories overall. He also made history with a third consecutive Paris–Roubaix win, overcoming a puncture and even a dangerous incident where a spectator threw a bottle at him mid-race.
Away from racing, van der Poel is known for strict discipline—early bedtimes, balanced training, and even relaxing with Fortnite. Now 30, with world titles in cyclo-cross, gravel, and road, he has set his sights on Olympic mountain biking glory at the 2028 Los Angeles Games. Though he’s hinted at retirement before his mid-30s, he seems determined to close out his career at the absolute peak of his powers.
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