Mathieu van der Pol (Alpecin Phoenix) has adjusted his cyclocross schedule to include an event in Gullegem on January 2. Due to health restrictions for the COVID-19 coronavirus, the Dutch National Following the cancellation of the Dutch National Championships, which were scheduled to take place on January 10 due to health restrictions for the COVID-19 coronavirus, the world champions have maintained a flexible schedule.

"Certainly nothing can be done," van der Pol said before the start of the Etihad Cross on Tuesday.

"We have to adjust again. A new schedule? We don't know yet if that will suit our preparations. Normally I would only leave for Spain for a training camp after January, but now I will be able to leave earlier."

Van der Pol was scheduled to defend his Dutch title at the cyclocross championships in Zaltbommel on January 10, but Het Nieuwsblad (opens in new tab) reports that the event has been canceled due to government health regulations surrounding the COVID-19 virus, which are in effect until January 19.

"Due to the current blockade and the intensified measures against the coronavirus, it is not possible to hold the event on this date," event organizers said. The KNWU and the organization will contact you as soon as we receive further information on this matter."

Het Nieuwsblad reported that due to government health restrictions, low-level events have already been cancelled, fans are not allowed to participate in professional events, and cyclocross is not recognized as one of the top sports by the Dutch Olympic Committee It was suggested that cyclocross is not recognized as one of the top sports by the Dutch Olympic Committee. Furthermore, Zaltbommel has been assured of a national championship in 2022.

Van der Poel started the cyclocross season last weekend by winning the World Cup in Namur. He also won in Essen on Tuesday and will compete in the World Cups in Hellenthal on Wednesday, Heusden-Zolder on December 26, and Dendermond on December 27.

Additional matches will follow in Bredene on December 30, GP Sven Nys on January 1, and Gulgem on January 2.