Thibau Nys & Van der Poel Livestream: Mudcross Hopes & Sleepy Start
Mathieu van der Poel‘s Dominance: A reign Forged in Baal
Table of Contents
Updated January 1, 2026, at 13:17:12 EST
The Unbeaten Streak
Mathieu van der Poel is currently enjoying a remarkable run of form, having secured victories in all six of his most recent races as of January 1, 2026. His success is particularly pronounced in Baal, belgium, where he has established a near-mythical record. Van der Poel has competed in Baal five times as a professional cyclist, winning each occasion: 2018, 2019, 2020, 2021, and most recently, 2024.
A Single Defeat: The 2014 Race
Despite his current dominance,Van der Poel’s career hasn’t been entirely without setbacks. He experienced a single defeat in Baal, but it came during his time as a promising junior cyclist. In 2014, a then-rising star Wout van Aert bested Van der Poel in that contest. Van Aert was absent from the Baal competition as of January 1, 2026.
| Year | Race | Winner |
|---|---|---|
| 2014 | Baal (Junior) | Wout van Aert |
| 2018 | Baal (professional) | Mathieu van der Poel |
| 2019 | Baal (Professional) | Mathieu van der Poel |
| 2020 | Baal (Professional) | Mathieu van der Poel |
| 2021 | Baal (Professional) | Mathieu van der Poel |
| 2024 | Baal (Professional) | Mathieu van der Poel |
The Significance of Baal
Baal, a small municipality in Belgium, has become synonymous with Van der Poel’s success. The challenging course, known for its steep inclines and muddy conditions, seems to perfectly suit his aggressive riding style. His consistent victories there have cemented his status as a favorite among fans and a formidable competitor on the cyclocross circuit.
Looking Ahead
Van der Poel’s current form raises the question of how long his winning streak will last.With Wout van Aert’s potential return to competition, a rematch between the two rivals is eagerly anticipated by cycling enthusiasts. The 2026 cyclocross season promises to be a thrilling one, with Van der Poel aiming to continue his reign and potentially add to his already extraordinary list of accomplishments.