Van der Poel and Van Aert to face off four times: Will Van der Poel grab the world record?

This year, however, Van der Poel is taking a slightly different approach. Last season, he began his cyclo-cross campaign in peak form, but by the time the World Championships arrived, that edge had faded. This time, the Dutchman has chosen to target a later peak. As a result, he will skip two weekends of competition in January to attend a training camp, ensuring he hits top form by February 2, 2025.

'We are taking a slightly different approach this winter season. Last year I started the season in top form, but the World Championships was not my best race of the season in terms of feeling. This time we are really trying to peak for the World Championships by focusing on specific preparations during a training camp. For optimal efficiency, it's better not to interrupt that," he explained.

The goal for this season is clear: capture the world title. Van der Poel has set his sights on equaling Erik De Vlaeminck's unique record. 'The seventh world title, of course. That is the only thing I have yet to achieve in cyclocross: this unique record of Erik De Vlaeminck. This ambition has been a driving force in my dedication to the cyclocross season this winter,' Van der Poel said. The world championship in Liévin is therefore his only real goal this season.

Although the world title is his top priority, Van der Poel also hopes to compete for victory in the other races in which he competes. 'But we'll see how it goes in the first weeks. As I said, the peak comes a little later this year,' the Dutchman said.