Snow and Ice Challenge Cyclo-cross National Championships in Belgium and Netherlands

Wintry Conditions Grip National Cyclo-cross Events

The Cyclo-cross National Championships in Belgium and the Netherlands faced considerable challenges this weekend, January 10-11, 2026, as snow and icy conditions swept across both nations. Organizers and athletes contended with the harsh winter weather, leading to schedule alterations and demanding race environments.

Belgian Championships See Schedule Adjustments in Beringen

In Beringen, Belgium, where the Belgian National Championships were hosted, wintry conditions necessitated immediate changes to Saturday's racing schedule. The junior and under-17 races were postponed to later in the day to allow for an improvement in course conditions. Temperatures in Beringen were notably low, with forecasts indicating highs of only -2 degrees Celsius on Saturday and lows of -7 degrees Celsius on Sunday. Despite these challenging circumstances, organizers, including Golazo, confirmed that the event was not at risk of cancellation, though dangerous sections of the circuit were removed to ensure rider safety. On Sunday, Thibau Nys successfully defended his elite men's title, fending off Emiel Verstrynge, with Michael Vanthourenhout securing third place.

Dutch Championships Proceed in Huijbergen Amidst Initial Concerns

Meanwhile, in Huijbergen, Netherlands, the Dutch National Championships also grappled with snow and ice on the course. Initial reports indicated potential disruptions, with organizers stating that racing would only be halted if the Dutch meteorological institute (KNMI) issued a red weather warning; a yellow warning was in effect. Despite earlier threats of snow, the women's elite race on Sunday ultimately commenced on a 'clear, fairly dry course'. Ceylin del Carmen Alvarado claimed the elite women's title, with teammate Puck Pieterse finishing second and Lucinda Brand in third. The men's elite race also proceeded on a course largely clear of snow, albeit under cold conditions. Tibor Del Grosso successfully defended his elite men's title, with Lars van der Haar and Pim Ronhaar completing the podium.

Broader Impact and Resilience of Cyclo-cross

The severe winter weather extended beyond the race courses, causing broader travel disruptions, including flight delays at Amsterdam's Schiphol airport. Cyclo-cross, a sport renowned for its demanding winter conditions, once again demonstrated the resilience of its athletes and organizers in adapting to extreme environments. Notably, Mathieu van der Poel was absent from the Dutch championships, opting for an altitude training camp in preparation for his road season. Earlier in the season, Wout van Aert's cyclo-cross campaign was cut short due to an ankle fracture sustained during a crash on a snowy course in Mol on January 2, 2026.