Mathieu van der Poel, the Dutch cycling sensation, is gearing up for a 2025 season filled with ambition and determination. With goals spanning the most iconic races in cycling, including a return to the Classics, a renewed focus on mountain biking, and an exciting challenge at the Tour de France, Van der Poel has set his sights high. Despite the usual chatter surrounding his performances and the occasional media criticism, the Alpecin-Deceuninck rider remains resolute, praising his team for ignoring outside distractions. And even with a stuffy nose, which became the talk of the press conference, Van der Poel’s resolve is unwavering, and his excitement for the year ahead is palpable.

Van der Poel: A Man of Ambition

Van der Poel’s return to the Tour de France this year is one of the major storylines for cycling enthusiasts. His goal? To win a stage, and not just any stage — the iconic Mur de Bretagne, which holds a special place in the Dutchman’s heart. “The Mur de Bretagne is once again a finish in the first week. That’s where I won my first Tour stage, and I’d love to do it again,” Van der Poel said, a hint of nostalgia in his voice. His first-ever Tour victory came in 2020 at the Mur de Bretagne, and the 2025 edition will present him with the perfect opportunity to add to his legendary status.

However, Van der Poel’s ambitions extend beyond the Tour. In fact, this year, he plans to focus on more than just road racing. The 28-year-old is eager to return to his mountain biking roots, a discipline where he has already claimed world titles and Olympic medals. “It’s something that I still love to do,” he admitted, acknowledging the challenges of balancing both disciplines, but also emphasizing the joy that mountain biking brings him. “It’s a part of me that I want to explore more this year,” he said, hinting at the potential for some surprise performances in the off-road races of 2025.

At the same time, Van der Poel has not forgotten his passion for the Classics, which have become a defining feature of his career. After a string of successful performances, including his famous victory at the 2020 Tour of Flanders, Van der Poel is aiming to reclaim his spot on the podium at these one-day races. Whether it’s the cobbled classics like Paris-Roubaix or the hilly Ardennes, Van der Poel has shown time and again that he can compete at the highest level, regardless of the terrain.

With these ambitious goals for 2025, Van der Poel’s calendar is already filling up fast. But amidst all of these plans, one thing is clear: the pressure of external criticism does not faze him in the slightest.

Team Alpecin-Deceuninck: Unwavering Support Amid Criticism

One of the most intriguing aspects of Van der Poel’s mindset heading into 2025 is his relationship with his team, Alpecin-Deceuninck. Despite the usual media criticisms that come with being one of the biggest names in the sport, Van der Poel expressed nothing but gratitude for the unwavering support of his team. “If they took that away from me… I think it would be very difficult,” he admitted, referring to the unconditional backing from his teammates and staff.

Cycling, a sport often scrutinized by both the media and the public, can be a difficult environment for athletes. For Van der Poel, the expectations are always sky-high, especially given his pedigree and past achievements. But instead of succumbing to the weight of criticism, he has chosen to remain focused on his own goals, and he credits his team for playing a pivotal role in maintaining his mental strength. “The support I get from the team is incredible,” Van der Poel added, noting that their ability to ignore external noise has allowed him to stay grounded and continue pursuing his dreams without distractions.

The importance of team dynamics cannot be overstated in cycling. A rider’s success is often a result of collective effort, with teammates offering critical support, whether it’s through pacing, strategy, or simply morale. For Van der Poel, this sense of unity is key. “There’s a strong sense of camaraderie. We’re all focused on the same goals, and I think that’s something special,” he remarked, stressing the importance of trust between himself and his team members.

Interestingly, Van der Poel’s team has managed to ignore the criticism surrounding his career, whether it’s about his form, his tactical decisions, or even his occasional lack of results. He explained how this approach has allowed him to remain confident and motivated. “I don’t pay too much attention to what others say. I know what I’m capable of, and my team believes in me,” he said, alluding to the belief that, despite occasional setbacks, his talent is undeniable.

Indeed, for all the highs and lows that Van der Poel has faced, the support from his teammates has remained constant. Whether he’s taking part in a sprint finish or navigating the brutal climbs of the Tour, he knows that his team has his back. This is crucial in a sport where every second matters, and every decision can make the difference between victory and defeat.

A Candid Press Conference: A Stuffed Nose and a Transparent Athlete

One moment that caught the attention of journalists during Van der Poel’s recent press conference was his admission of having a stuffy nose, which led to some light-hearted moments. While some may have expected him to focus solely on his goals for 2025, Van der Poel remained approachable and open, displaying his usual candid nature. “I’ve got a bit of a cold, so apologies for the sniffles,” he joked, much to the amusement of the gathered press.

Despite the stuffy nose, there was no mistaking Van der Poel’s sincerity when talking about his upcoming season. The press conference turned into more than just a formal exchange of information; it became an opportunity for fans and media alike to connect with the man behind the racing numbers. His approachability and honesty have always been one of his most endearing qualities, making him not just a favorite among cycling fans, but a role model for aspiring athletes everywhere.

As the conversation shifted back to the serious business of 2025, Van der Poel was quick to highlight his hunger for victory, despite the ongoing challenges he faces in balancing road racing with mountain biking. “I want to push my limits,” he said. “And I know that means taking on some big challenges this year, but I’m ready for them.” It’s clear that his ambition remains as strong as ever.

The Road Ahead: Can Van der Poel Conquer All?

With his sights set on the Tour de France, the Classics, and mountain biking, Van der Poel faces a busy and demanding year. However, as always, he’s prepared to take on these challenges with the same determination and focus that have defined his career thus far. From the pressure of high expectations to the occasional sniffles, nothing seems to be able to stop him from pursuing his dreams.

His team, Alpecin-Deceuninck, will continue to play a vital role in helping him achieve his goals. With their unwavering support, Van der Poel will undoubtedly approach each race with the mindset of a winner. And as the media continues to criticize or praise him, Van der Poel will remain focused, driven, and ready to tackle whatever comes his way.

The 2025 season promises to be an exciting one for Mathieu van der Poel, and cycling fans around the world can’t wait to see how his journey unfolds. Whether he’s conquering the cobbles of the Classics, attacking the climbs of the Tour de France, or dominating the mountain biking trails, one thing is for sure: Van der Poel’s passion for cycling is stronger than ever. And with the unwavering support of his team, the sky’s the limit for the Dutch star.