Mathieu van der Poel, the Dutch cycling star, is experiencing one of the most heartbreaking moments of his life following the tragic loss of his mother, Corinne Poulidor. In a deeply emotional interview, van der Poel broke down in tears as he spoke about the profound impact her passing has had on him. “It’s the saddest moment of my life,” he admitted, visibly shaken by the grief of losing a woman who had been a constant source of support and inspiration throughout his career.
Corinne Poulidor, daughter of French cycling legend Raymond Poulidor, had always been a strong influence in van der Poel’s life, instilling in him the values of hard work, resilience, and determination that helped shape him into the champion cyclist he is today. Her loss not only leaves a deep void in his personal life but also in the world of cycling, where she was a beloved figure due to her family’s rich legacy in the sport.
Van der Poel, known for his toughness on the bike, showed a rare moment of vulnerability as he spoke about the pain of losing his mother. “She was everything to me,” he said, choking back tears. “I wouldn’t be where I am today without her support. It’s hard to imagine continuing without her.”
The cycling community has rallied around van der Poel, offering messages of support and condolences during this incredibly difficult time. Fans, teammates, and fellow cyclists have expressed their sympathies, knowing how important family is to the Dutch cyclist, whose career has been closely linked to his family’s history in the sport.
As van der Poel processes this immense loss, his resilience and strength will be tested in ways that go beyond the challenges of the race
course.