Mixed Feelings After the European Championships in Middelkerke

The European Cyclocross Championships took place on Sunday on the military domain of Lombardsijde, near the Belgian coast. Our team headed there with healthy ambitions but returned home with mixed emotions. Felipe Orts showed a strong performance, finishing 9th and returning to his usual level, while Joris Nieuwenhuis had an off day and crossed the line in 15th place. He’ll have a quick chance to bounce back on Tuesday at the Jaarmarktcross in Niel.

Unlike the well-known Superprestige course in Middelkerke, the Lombardsijde circuit offered a completely different challenge. With several running sections and long stretches of sand, it was a grueling track suited for riders with raw power. Both Felipe and Joris got off to a solid start and were part of the leading group early on. Joris even took the lead briefly but eventually had to let the front riders go after hitting his limits.

In a second chase group, Felipe rode a consistent race, always within striking distance. He felt better than in previous weeks, even though sand is not his preferred terrain. In the final lap, he managed to move up to 9th place, showing clear signs of progress. Joris eventually finished 15th after a tough day in the saddle.

Felipe: “I’m happy with this result. It wasn’t the best course for me with all the sand, but I felt good and had some energy left for the final lap. I’m glad to be back in the top ten and to feel that my form is improving.”

Joris: “The preparations leading up to this European Championship were great. From the first rough planning back in March, to the altitude training camp in September, a lot of running and all the cross-training sessions in the sand with Richard (Groenendaal). But today it just didn’t click. I couldn’t get into it. And that’s also part of the process. If there’s one thing I learned from last year, it’s that setbacks like these can help you come back stronger as long as you take the right steps. Together with the people around me, we’re going to keep working. There are still many races to come, starting Tuesday in Niel.”

Despite the mixed results, the team remains optimistic and motivated. With both riders showing strong commitment and continuous progress, the next races promise exciting battles and opportunities to move back toward the front of the field.