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 in cyclocross races prove otherwise. It’s not just about muscle; it’s about finesse, experience, and mental resilience. And this is the part most people miss: even the greatest riders, like Mathieu van der Poel, aren’t invincible in the sand—they’ve simply mastered the art of minimizing its impact.
The 2025/26 cyclocross season is once again dominated by Mathieu van der Poel, the undefeated powerhouse who continues to reign supreme. 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, inexperience, or his notorious 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 whenever these tricky stretches appear.
And this is where opinions start to clash: Could his father, Sven Nys, a two-time world champion himself, hold the key to unlocking Thibau’s potential? Or is this a topic they avoid altogether? Surprisingly, Sven laughs off the notion during the In de Waaier podcast, revealing, ‘We talk about it every day.’ He admits that even he struggled with sand early in his career. ‘It’s not just about brute force,’ he explains. ‘It’s about balance, strength, and stamina coming together. If you’re pushing too hard, you’ll falter. But with a little extra power and the right approach, you can navigate it more smoothly.’
Sven’s advice? Embrace the challenge. ‘Over time, I learned to see sand as part of my growth as an athlete,’ he says. ‘Thibau isn’t there yet, but he’s improving. He needs more experience and strength to truly master it.’
Mathieu van der Poel’s raw power is undeniable, but even he isn’t a sand specialist. What sets him apart is his ability to turn potential weaknesses into non-issues through sheer dominance. Thibau Nys aspires to reach this level, but it’s a steep climb.
‘When you see Mathieu carve through a sand section where others struggle, it’s not just skill—it’s pure strength,’ observes the Baloise Verzekeringen - Het Poetsbureau Lions manager. ‘Thibau doesn’t have that yet.’ But physical strength is only half the battle. Nys also needs to overcome mental barriers. ‘Doubts creep in when things go wrong,’ the manager adds. ‘If you think you’ll fail, you often do. Thibau’s mindset needs to shift.’
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. Here’s a thought-provoking question: Is it realistic to expect Nys to upset the champion in Hulst, or should he aim for a podium finish instead?
Sven Nys remains pragmatic about his son’s prospects. ‘When Mathieu is at his peak, the odds are nearly impossible,’ he admits. ‘Thibau has come close in races like Namur, but Hulst is a different beast.’ So, don’t expect a miracle in Hulst. For now, a podium finish should be Thibau’s goal—a realistic ambition that keeps him grounded while he continues to grow as a rider. Beating Mathieu van der Poel? That’s a challenge that demands patience, experience, and a whole lot of grit. What do you think? Can Thibau Nys rise to the occasion, or is van der Poel simply untouchable? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
