Alpecin-Deceuninck has officially announced plans to honor one of cycling’s greatest modern icons, Mathieu van der Poel, with a permanent statue outside the team’s headquarters. The tribute, which comes with a \$2.5 million budget approval, will serve as a lasting symbol of gratitude for van der Poel’s immense contributions to the team throughout his illustrious career.
The statue will be cast in bronze and feature the Dutch cycling superstar in a victorious pose, representing not just his many race wins but also the heart, determination, and passion he brought to every competition. Positioned prominently in front of Alpecin-Deceuninck’s main facility, the monument will also include a commemorative plaque detailing key milestones and achievements that van der Poel accomplished while riding for the team.
Mathieu van der Poel, who joined Alpecin-Deceuninck early in his professional journey, quickly established himself as one of the most versatile and dominant riders in the world, excelling in cyclocross, road racing, and mountain biking. His victories at prestigious events such as the Tour of Flanders, Milan-San Remo, and multiple cyclocross world championships have not only brought glory to the team but have also elevated its global profile.
In a statement released by the team, management emphasized that the statue is not only a tribute to van der Poel’s competitive achievements, but also to the inspiration he has provided to fans and aspiring cyclists around the world. “Mathieu is more than just a champion — he embodies the spirit and resilience of our team. His legacy deserves to be honored in a way that will stand the test of time,” the statement read.
The statue is expected to be unveiled in a public ceremony later this year, with van der Poel and several cycling legends anticipated to attend. The event will mark a significant chapter in the team’s history and celebrate a rider who has become synonymous with Alpecin-Deceuninck’s rise on the international cycling stage.
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