At 29, Mathieu van der Poel has been honored as Dutch Cyclist of the Year for the fourth time, a remarkable feat that reinforces his status as one of the most dynamic and versatile cyclists of his generation. Competing for Alpecin-Deceuninck, van der Poel has consistently showcased his talent across different cycling disciplines, demonstrating his dominance not just on the road, but also in cyclocross and gravel racing.
In 2023, van der Poel achieved the rare “cobbles double,” a feat that only a select few riders have managed. Winning both the Tour of Flanders and Paris-Roubaix in a single season is exceptionally challenging, requiring a combination of technical skill, endurance, and tactical awareness. Each race poses unique challenges; the Tour of Flanders is notorious for its short, steep climbs on narrow, cobbled roads, while Paris-Roubaix, known as the “Hell of the North,” features long stretches of uneven cobblestone sectors that test a rider’s resilience and bike-handling prowess. Van der Poel’s victory in both races attests to his strength and his ability to thrive under the most demanding conditions.
His Tour of Flanders win was particularly memorable, as he broke away with his rivals on the punishing hills, managing to outlast them in a thrilling sprint finish. In Paris-Roubaix, van der Poel showcased a different kind of dominance, attacking late in the race to secure a solo victory by over a minute. These wins have solidified his place among the elite riders who have conquered the cobbled classics, races that are revered for their brutal nature and the physical and mental demands they place on riders.
In addition to his success on the cobblestones, van der Poel also claimed the Gravel World Championship title, adding a new dimension to his impressive list of achievements. Gravel racing, a relatively new discipline, combines elements of road and off-road cycling, often involving rough, unpaved roads that require not only endurance but also precise handling skills. Winning a world title in this growing discipline highlights van der Poel’s versatility and willingness to push his limits in different racing formats. His ability to transition seamlessly from traditional road racing to gravel racing and cyclocross has made him a fan favorite and a symbol of the evolving nature of modern cycling.
Van der Poel’s success in 2023 reflects a career defined by consistent progression and a hunger for new challenges. Having grown up in a family steeped in cycling history—his father, Adrie van der Poel, was a successful professional cyclist, and his grandfather, Raymond Poulidor, was a celebrated French cyclist—Mathieu has long been familiar with the sport’s demands and expectations. Yet, rather than resting on his family’s laurels, he has carved his own path, displaying a relentless work ethic and a desire to excel across multiple disciplines. His achievements have inspired a new generation of Dutch cyclists and earned him a reputation as one of the sport’s most exciting talents.
Receiving the Dutch Cyclist of the Year award four times is a testament to van der Poel’s consistency and dominance in a competitive field. His achievements this year underscore his resilience, adaptability, and determination, making him not only a celebrated figure in Dutch cycling but also a formidable competitor on the international stage. As he moves forward in his career, fans and fellow athletes alike eagerly anticipate what new heights he will reach, knowing that van der Poel’s ambition and skill are sure to keep him at the forefront of the sport for years to come.