The world champion Fem Van Empel waves the flag in the first round of the Cyclocross World Cup for the women elite category, which took place today in Antwerp, Belgium. Already first yesterday in Kortrijk's Urban Cross, the world champion asserted her superiority during the first lap where she reached the escapee Marie Schreiber, a Luxembourger from the SD Worx team. The decisive attack by Van Empel (Visma Lease a Bike) occurred on the third passage, and for the Dutch rider's opponents, only the fight for second place remained. The second position was conquered by Lucinda Brand, with the surprising Schreiber in third. Then, Alvarado and Casasola to close the top five.

Italian champion Sara Casasola (Crelan Corendon) performed well. Despite a difficult start, the Friulian rider recovered positions from mid-race onwards. Not brilliant but effective, Casasola ended up obtaining a very respectable fourth position.