The Exact Cross in Beringen marks the first Flemish cyclocross race of the new season. Van Empel is also making her return after an instructive road season. After the Tour de France Femmes, a long preparation for the cyclocross season followed for the reigning world champion.  

“I am extremely looking forward to cyclocross again”, Van Empel says. “I've been able to prepare well over the past few months. The first cyclocross race of the season is always a gauge of how the form is, so that brings some excitement. The course in Beringen has changed a bit compared to last year. I hope I can compete for the win straight away. Furthermore, I can't wait to experience the great atmosphere during the races again, because the discipline remains special to me.”  

With nineteen wins, Van Empel dominated the previous winter. As icing on the cake, she renewed her title at both the European and world championships. “I have marked both championships with dot on the calendar. Again it will be a goal of mine to win those races, but that is the case for all races where I start. I want to get the maximum out of everything and I want to keep improving myself.”  

Coach Jan Boven sees a driven Van Empel before the start of the new season. “Fem is a pure crosser, so she has really looked forward to this period. After her participation in the Tour de France Femmes, where she gave great support to team leaders Marianne Vos and Riejanne Markus, we shifted the focus towards cyclocross. The preparations went smoothly. The form is good, but the expectations will immediately be very high. The first race of the season is always exciting, also for us as a team. We are ready for it.”  

Exact Cross Beringen (12/10)  

Superprestige Ruddervoorde (20/10)  

Kiremko Nacht van Woerden (22/10)

Superprestige Overijse (27/10)  

X2O-Trofee Oudenaarde (1/11)