After a fast start, Van Aert quickly took the initiative. The Team Jumbo-Visma rider was joined by Laurens Sweeck. Van Aert continued to keep the pressure on his compatriot and eventually managed to create a gap. He maintained his lead up to the finish line.

“It’s great to win in the Belgian tricolour”, Van Aert said. “I’ve been national champion with the pros a few times, but I had never been able to show the jersey until today. That is very special. It was not an easy cross. There was a lot of wind, so it was ideal that Sweeck could keep up with me that long. I put the pressure on him several times, but he managed to stay with me. When I saw that I finally had a gap, I went full steam ahead.”

In addition to Van Aert, seven-time cyclocross world champion Marianne Vos also took the start for Team Jumbo-Visma in Mol, where the lake’s beach and sand are somewhat reminiscent of the course of the upcoming world championship in Ostend. Vos did very well and saw her strong race crowned with the third place.

“I am very happy with my first podium for the team. The feeling was very good. I made a mistake in the sand on the penultimate lap and as a result, I lost some time. That was a pity. But all in all, my form is getting better and I can work towards the world championship with confidence. It will not be easy to get on the podium, but I’m looking forward to it.”