{"id":9472,"date":"2026-08-23T06:03:20","date_gmt":"2026-08-23T06:03:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/velomag.eu\/back-on-track-mathieu-van-der-poels-mtb-comeback\/"},"modified":"2026-08-23T06:03:20","modified_gmt":"2026-08-23T06:03:20","slug":"back-on-track-mathieu-van-der-poels-mtb-comeback","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/velomag.eu\/nl\/back-on-track-mathieu-van-der-poels-mtb-comeback\/","title":{"rendered":"Back on Track: Mathieu van der Poel’s MTB Comeback"},"content":{"rendered":"

Mathieu van der Poel operado tras La Rioja Bike Race<\/a>Mathieu van der Poel’s Return to Mountain Biking: A Quest for the Elusive World Championship<\/strong><\/p>\n

After a remarkable victory on the Champs-\u00c9lys\u00e9es during the 2026 Tour de France, Mathieu van der Poel is shifting his focus back to mountain biking, aiming to secure the world championship title that has long eluded him.<\/p>\n

A Passion Rekindled<\/strong><\/p>\n

Van der Poel’s return to mountain biking is driven by a deep-seated passion for the sport. He expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I enjoy the atmosphere. I have fun on the mountain bike, and becoming world champion in this discipline is a real goal for me.” His ambition is clear: to become the first rider to hold world titles in road racing, cyclo-cross, and mountain biking.<\/p>\n

Strategic Preparation<\/strong><\/p>\n

Balancing road and mountain biking has been a challenge for Van der Poel. He acknowledged the difficulties, noting, “It’s something different. Not only the technique but also the training. And it’s not easy. But this time, I’ve dedicated more time to mountain biking.” His preparation included two weeks in Livigno, focusing almost exclusively on mountain biking, which he believes has made a significant difference.<\/p>\n

Upcoming Challenges<\/strong><\/p>\n

Looking ahead, Van der Poel has set his sights on the UCI Mountain Bike World Championships in Val di Sole, Italy. He is determined to secure the elusive rainbow jersey, stating, “Clearly, I want to win. I would like to become world champion in mountain biking.” With the World Cup event in Les Gets serving as a crucial warm-up, he is poised to face formidable competitors, including Tom Pidcock, the 2024 Olympic and world MTB champion. (cyclingnews.com<\/a>)<\/p>\n

A Legacy in the Making<\/strong><\/p>\n

Van der Poel’s journey is a testament to his versatility and determination. His pursuit of the mountain bike world championship adds another exciting chapter to his illustrious career, promising thrilling races and inspiring fans worldwide.<\/p>\n

Highlights:<\/h2>\n