In a feat that will be etched in cycling history for generations to come, Mathieu van der Poel has officially cemented his status as one of the sport’s all-time greats by achieving what no rider before him has accomplished — winning Milan–San Remo, Paris–Roubaix, and the Tour of Flanders in a single season. The achievement, now being referred to as the “Monumental Triple Crown,” has not only stunned fans and pundits alike but has elevated Van der Poel into a league of his own.
The journey began in March, when Van der Poel stormed to victory at Milan–San Remo, executing a perfectly timed attack on the Poggio and holding off a chasing pack that included the likes of Tadej Pogačar and Wout van Aert. It was a masterclass in patience, precision, and power — qualities that would define his season.
Just weeks later, he conquered the cobbles of the Tour of Flanders, a race deeply embedded in his family legacy. Battling through brutal climbs and relentless attacks, Van der Poel summoned the strength to break away solo on the Oude Kwaremont, crossing the line with tears in his eyes and history at his heels. It marked his third Flanders title, but this one felt different — it was part of something bigger.
Then came Paris–Roubaix, the “Hell of the North,” and the most unpredictable of all the Monuments. Racing through treacherous cobblestone sectors and mud-splattered chaos, Van der Poel once again showed tactical genius and fearless dominance. With a brutal acceleration on Carrefour de l’Arbre, he dropped his rivals and powered to the Roubaix Velodrome alone, lifting his bike overhead as the crowd roared in disbelief and admiration.
No cyclist in the modern era — or the past — had ever managed to win all three of these legendary races in one season. The sheer variety of terrain, the physical punishment, the mental focus required across each, and the unique strategic demands of every race make this accomplishment nearly unthinkable. And yet, Van der Poel made it a reality.
Riding for Alpecin–Deceuninck, the 29-year-old Dutchman has redefined what is possible in one-day racing. Analysts, former pros, and current competitors have all praised his extraordinary consistency, adaptability, and relentless competitive spirit.
“He’s not just the best of his generation — he might be the most complete classics rider we’ve ever seen,” said one retired champion. “What he’s done this season is beyond legendary. It’s myth-making.”
Beyond the accolades and statistics, Van der Poel’s season represents a turning point in cycling history — a moment when greatness was not just glimpsed but fully realized. Fans around the world, from the cobbled streets of Flanders to the sun-drenched roads of San Remo, witnessed a master at the peak of his powers, performing with the kind of brilliance that transcends sport.
As celebrations erupt and tributes pour in, one thing is certain: the 2025 season will be remembered as the year Mathieu van der Poel didn’t just race — he rewrote the record books.
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