The stage is set for one of the most anticipated clashes of the cyclocross season as Wout van Aert and Mathieu van der Poel prepare to face off at the Exact Cross Loenhout on December 27, 2024. This event marks the first confrontation between the two cycling titans, with Van Aert making his season debut after recovering from illness.
Van Aert had to withdraw from the previous race scheduled for December 23 due to health issues, but he is eager to show his prowess on the mud once again. "Ik rijd al meer dan 10 jaar tegen Wout. Het voelt dus eigenlijk vooral vertrouwd dat hij weer meedoet" (I have been racing against Wout for over ten years. It feels quite familiar to have him back), said one excited fan outside the venue.
The excitement surrounding the event is palpable, as it draws fans from across Belgium, with ticket sales skyrocketing since Van Aert confirmed his return. Organizers expect around 12,000 enthusiastic spectators, showcasing just how much interest there is for this match-up. Christophe Impens from Golazo, the organizing body, noted, "Er komen bussen uit Oost- en West-Vlaanderen, uit Limburg, uit Scherpenheuvel ook een. Het zijn niet alleen mensen uit de regio" (Buses are coming from East and West Flanders, Limburg, and even Scherpenheuvel. These are not just people from the region).
The race will kick off at 15:00 local time, with women’s events starting earlier at 13:45. Even though some top competitors will not be present, the lineup includes talented racers such as Thibau Nys and Niels Vandeputte, promising exhilarating races throughout the day.
Course conditions might play a significant role during the race. Following several days of rainfall, the track at Loenhout is sure to challenge the riders with slippery patches and muddy terrains. Keep the comments of Van der Poel in mind, who expressed his uncertainty about the course's speed, saying, "Met alle regen die er gevallen is, had ik dat niet verwacht. We zullen het morgen zien, hé" (With all the rain that's fallen, I didn't expect it to be quick. We'll see tomorrow, right?).
Unfortunately, not all expected names will appear at Loenhout. Notably, the talented Toon Aerts has had to withdraw due to illness, stating on Instagram, "Een tiende plaats met veel hoesten en proesten" (A tenth place with lots of coughing and wheezing). His absence adds to the drama, leaving fans disappointed but eager for the competition to proceed.
For viewers anticipating the event, there are multiple options to watch Van Aert and Van der Poel go head-to-head. The race will be broadcast live on VRT 1, and streaming is also available on VRT Max, with the latter featuring free access to the Belgian audience. The popularity of the cyclocross series means this event is set to garner national attention, making it not just about the race but also about the camaraderie and spirit of the sport.
This duel is sure to capture the imagination of cycling enthusiasts worldwide, especially since Van Aert’s comeback only heightens excitement surrounding this event. Fans eagerly await 15:00 when the starting gun will echo across the Loenhout grounds.
Whether you’re attending live or watching from home, the Exact Cross Loenhout promises to be unforgettable as two of cycling’s premier athletes reignite their rivalry. The stage is no longer just about victory; it’s about pride, history, and the fierce competition between two champions. Prepare for what is expected to be another thrilling chapter in the enduring saga of Van Aert vs. Van der Poel!
