The New Year opened with the traditional Sven Nys Cyclocross Grand Prix in Baal, Belgium, valid as a stage of the Challenge X²O Badkamers Trophy. Fem Van Empel (Visma Lease a Bike) won in a photo finish after a spectacular finale that was decided in the last few centimeters, with the world champion ahead of Lucinda Brand. Despite an early crash and attacks by Pieterse first and then Brand, the world champion started an exceptional comeback, first getting on Pieterse's wheel and then, 50 meters from the finish, following Brand's lead before beating her with a perfect burst of energy. Third place went to Puck Pieterse.