Wout van Aert is finally relaxed: the Belgian champion has decided to approach this World Championship not with victory ambitions, but primarily for enjoyment.

"It's obvious that I'll try to make things as difficult as possible for Mathieu" - Van Aert said in yesterday's press conference - "and I'll try to take advantage of that small opportunity that always exists".

Only after the race in Maasmechelen did Van Aert decide to participate in the World Championship. His decision came entirely unexpectedly but made all cyclocross fans happy. "When I left Maasmechelen, I hadn't yet made the decision. I thought about how the race went and how I had approached previous ones. The result pleased me and I acted on instinct".

The Belgian's winter hasn't been easy and recovery after the crash at the Vuelta required more attention and care, and the recovery was slower.
"The injury I sustained was more serious than I initially thought and it took some time to recover. But to make a decision, I wanted to wait for the races in Benidorm and Maasmechelen. I didn't want to participate just to be present and I think I've arrived here in good condition".

Van Aert probably won't win, but the Lievin course is certainly particularly suited to his characteristics. "Everyone knows there's only one big favorite. I know many felt reassured that I had a good race in Maasmechelen, but in the end only one rider has proven to be far stronger. Mathieu will be very difficult to beat. But of course, I'll make things as difficult as possible for him and hope to be his closest rival. But I'm realistic enough to think that everything I do will be for a podium spot".

The Belgian will start from the fourth row and will have to struggle to catch van der Poel. Mud will be plentiful and the course will be difficult and will require a lot of energy. Van Aert could have a chance, especially if the victory is decided in a two-man sprint.

"For me, it would already be a dream to be able to sprint against Mathieu. This would mean that I've stayed with him for an entire hour. Something no one has done this winter. That would be fantastic".