Van der Poel on the 'Russian Roulette' known as Paris-Roubaix: "I don't ask for a favor in return from Philipsen"

First, a quick note on safety in racing, currently the most hotly debated topic in cycling. Van der Poel was clear in his stance. "It's good they're trying something different, but in my opinion, that chicane isn't the best solution. Braking at sixty kilometers per hour on a railway track is just as dangerous, especially when it's followed by a 180-degree turn," he mentioned, referring to the notorious chicane. "The most dangerous part of cycling is the riders themselves. We take the risks, and that's the main issue. Everyone wants to be at the front at the same time, but that's not always possible."

Moving on to Paris-Roubaix itself. The 260-kilometer spring race is tailor-made for Van der Poel, who also has Jasper Philipsen, last year's runner-up, by his side. In short, Alpecin-Deceuninck has multiple cards to play and exceptionally strong support riders. "If we create a situation like last year, it's good for both of us," Van der Poel looks forward to Sunday, referring to the 2023 edition when Philipsen sprinted to second place, three-quarters of a minute behind the Dutch superstar, relegating Wout van Aert to bronze.

"We have several ways to win the race," MVDP continued. "Our strength is that we have two strong guys. Jasper proved last year he's very good in such a race. Of course, you also need a bit of luck. Last year, we were spared any misfortune. No crashes, no flat tires. That's also very important. If that can happen again, it could work out well for both Jasper and me."

According to Van der Poel, Paris-Roubaix is unlike any other race. "In other classics, it’s easier to make a difference if you have the strongest team in the race. Take Lidl-Trek, for instance. They’ve shown they have a good strategy and can play multiple riders. They’ve proven to be very strong. As a team, we may be stronger in Paris-Roubaix compared to other races. I'm really happy with the team's performance. In the Tour of Flanders, the guys did an amazing job. We were never in panic. Hopefully, it’ll be the same this Sunday."

Van der Poel is undoubtedly having a standout year, with one remarkable performance after another. "So far, I can only enjoy what I've achieved this season in the rainbow jersey," the spring protagonist acknowledges. "The Tour of Flanders was my main goal, and I achieved that. Anything else would be a bonus. Winning Paris-Roubaix again would definitely be cool. But in Paris-Roubaix, luck plays a bigger role. Sometimes it's a bit like Russian roulette."

Soon after, Van der Poel is asked what would happen if he and Philipsen were to enter the famous Vélodrome in Roubaix together. "What happens and who wins if Jasper and I are leading together? Once we get to the Vélodrome, Jasper goes left and I go right!" jokes Van der Poel, surely winning laughs from the audience. "We won't do that, right," Philipsen winks back, adding to the entertainment in the press room.

In Milan-San Remo, Van der Poel helped the 'Flame of Ham' to a fabulous victory. However, the ever friendly rider doesn't ask for a favor in return from his Flemish teammate. "I don't help teammates expecting something in return," he shows his champion spirit. "That was the right decision for the team at the moment. I know Jasper would have done the same for me. I do it for the best result. Last year, Jasper did me a great service in Paris-Roubaix."

"Do we have other cards to play who can win? Absolutely! Gianni Vermeersch showed last year he was in good form, though he was a bit too eager with his energy," he again brings smiles to many faces. "But Paris-Roubaix is one of the most special races. Anything can happen, not just on the cobbles."

Then, one more time about the 2023 edition, which was more than memorable for the Roodhooft brothers' team. "Last year was certainly very special," Van der Poel reflects. "It’s beautiful to win in the Vélodrome. And when Jasper then sprints to second place, the celebration is truly complete. The afterparty was definitely a success. That was fantastic," beams the rider from Kapellen, before packing up his gear and heading out to scout the French cobbles. What an anticipation...