- Historic Victory: Van der Poel Claims World Road Race Title
- Thrilling Race and Triumph Amidst Challenging Conditions
- Dutch Cyclist’s Masterful Ride Ends 36-Year Wait for Title
Mathieu van der Poel became the first Dutchman to win the men’s world road race title in nearly four decades with a masterful ride through the wet streets of Glasgow.
The 28-year-old attacked from a small lead group on the 14.3-kilometer course’s penultimate circuit, leaving Tadej Pogacar, Wout van Aert, and Mads Pedersen in his wake. Van der Poel poured on the power and even endured a heart-in-mouth moment when he collided with a greasy corner, resulting in a torn shirt and a scuffed shoe.
He extended his lead in front of enormous crowds, many of whom wore Dutch flags, and averted more late scares as he safely navigated the 43 tight corners, crossing the finish line in George Square with his arms aloft.
The former cyclocross world champion became the first Dutchman since Joop Zoetemelk in 1985 to earn the rainbow jersey on the road. Van Aert finished second, with Pogacar edging out Pedersen for the bronze medal.
The 28-year-old Van der Poel stated, “It was one of my greatest remaining goals, and to achieve it today was incredible.”
“It nearly concludes my tenure, in my estimation. Perhaps it is my greatest victory on the road, and I cannot fathom riding in rainbows for an entire year.”
The 271-kilometer race that began in Edinburgh was halted for nearly an hour on the approaches to the Glasgow circuits when protestors from the environmental organization This Is Rigged blocked the road. At that point, a lead group of nine cyclists had formed, but none of the top contenders were included. With the Belgians and Danes leading the chase towards Glasgow and the scheduled ten circuits of the circuit, the gap was narrowed and they were ultimately overtaken by the heavy hitters.
Alberto Bettiol of Italy caught everyone napping at a feed zone when, with approximately four circuits remaining, he launched an attack and established a hazardous lead. But once Van der Poel, Pogacar, Van Aert, and Pedersen organized the pursuit, it was game over for the Italian, and the stage was left for the sport’s three biggest names and the 2019 world champion, Pedersen, to battle for gold.
Rain added a new twist to the narrative, and on a different day, Van der Poel might have had to pay for his fall. He eventually added his name to the list of road world champions as he surged up the steep Montrose Road ascent for the final time. Van der Poel could now attempt a double in the mountain bike race next week.
