Here’s a bold statement: raw strength alone won’t cut it in cyclocross—and Thibau Nys is learning this the hard way. But here’s where it gets controversial: while some believe sheer power can overcome technical challenges, the sand sections of a race tell a different story. And this is the part most people miss—it’s not just about physical ability; it’s about mastering the mental game and embracing the unpredictability of the terrain.
The 2025/26 cyclocross season is once again dominated by the unstoppable Mathieu van der Poel, who remains undefeated. With Wout Van Aert sidelined due to injury, Thibau Nys stands as the only rider with a glimmer of hope to challenge the seven-time world champion. Yet, the young Belgian seems to falter in crucial moments—whether it’s bad luck, a lack of experience, or his ongoing struggle with sand sections. Speaking of sand, it’s become Nys’s Achilles’ heel, transforming him from a standout performer to just another rider in the pack when these obstacles appear.
And this is where opinions start to clash: Could his father, Sven Nys, a two-time world champion himself, hold the key to overcoming this challenge? Or is this a topic they avoid altogether? In a recent interview on the In de Waaier podcast, Sven laughed off the idea of keeping it a secret. “We talk about it every day,” he admitted. “When I was younger, I struggled with sand too. It’s not just about brute force—it’s about balance, strength, and stamina coming together. If you’re pushing too hard, you’ll struggle. But with a little extra power, you can navigate it more smoothly.”
Sven’s approach wasn’t about overpowering the sand but learning to work with it. “I learned to embrace it because it made me a more complete athlete,” he explained. “Thibau isn’t there yet, though he’s improving. He needs more experience and strength to master it.”
What’s truly jaw-dropping is Mathieu van der Poel’s ability to conquer sand sections with sheer raw power. “When you see him cut through a line where it seems impossible, that’s pure strength—it has little to do with skill,” noted the Baloise Verzekeringen - Het Poetsbureau Lions manager. “He just powers through because he’s that strong. Thibau isn’t at that level yet.”
But physical strength is only half the battle. Here’s a thought-provoking question: Could Thibau’s mental barriers be holding him back more than his physical abilities? “It’s the combination of the physical and mental,” the manager added. “If things go wrong a few times, doubts creep in. When you think, ‘I’m going to fall here,’ that’s often exactly what happens. Thibau needs to overcome that mental block.”
With the World Championships in Hulst on the horizon—a race notorious for its sand-heavy course—Nys’s chances seem slim. Yet, Belgian fans still pin their hopes on him to dethrone Van der Poel. But is it too soon? Sven Nys thinks so. “When Mathieu is at his best, the chance is almost nonexistent,” he admitted. “Maybe a podium finish should be Thibau’s goal for now. Beating Mathieu requires staying level-headed and not digging too deep a hole.”
So, what do you think? Can Thibau Nys overcome his sand struggles and challenge Van der Poel’s dominance? Or is it too early for him to aim for the top spot? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
