Tom Boonen on van Aert, Pogacar, and his favourite for Flanders and Roubaix Mathieu van der Poel: “He gained a mental advantage over Tadej”….
Belgian cycling legend Tom Boonen has shared his insights on the current cycling landscape, offering valuable commentary on the fierce competition between the sport’s elite riders. In an exclusive interview, Boonen discussed the growing rivalry between Wout van Aert and Tadej Pogacar, as well as his pick for the upcoming Tour of Flanders and Paris-Roubaix. His thoughts offer a fascinating perspective on the psychology of racing and the shifting dynamics of professional cycling.
Boonen, a four-time winner of Paris-Roubaix and two-time champion of the Tour of Flanders, is no stranger to the demands of the Classics. As one of the sport’s most decorated riders, his opinions on the upcoming season carry weight, particularly when he speaks about the dominant figures in the peloton today.
Van Aert vs. Pogacar: The Battle for Supremacy
When asked about the rivalry between Belgian powerhouse Wout van Aert and Slovenian sensation Tadej Pogacar, Boonen pointed to the mental edge that van Aert seems to have gained over his rival. While both riders are among the best in the world, with Pogacar excelling in stage races and van Aert shining in one-day events, it’s the psychological battle that Boonen believes could play a key role in the upcoming Classics.
“Wout has definitely gained a mental advantage over Tadej,” Boonen said. “In the head-to-head matchups we’ve seen, van Aert has shown he’s able to handle the pressure better. Pogacar is a remarkable talent, but the Classics are a different beast. It’s about grit, determination, and knowing how to manage your mind when the race gets tough.”
Boonen noted that while Pogacar’s strength and versatility make him a threat in many races, he might struggle with the unique challenges posed by Flanders and Roubaix. “Pogacar is still learning the nuances of the cobbled Classics,” Boonen explained. “Wout, on the other hand, has proven time and again that he can adapt. His experience, particularly in the Flemish and Northern classics, gives him an edge.”
Mathieu van der Poel: The Favorite for Flanders and Roubaix
Boonen was quick to name Mathieu van der Poel as his favorite for both the Tour of Flanders and Paris-Roubaix. The Dutch star has shown remarkable strength and consistency in these races, and Boonen believes that van der Poel’s blend of power and tactical awareness make him a formidable force.
“I think Mathieu is the favorite for both Flanders and Roubaix this year,” Boonen said confidently. “He’s a rider who thrives in these races. We’ve seen his explosive power and his ability to position himself at the right time. He’s been building a strong foundation, and mentally, he’s in a great place.”
However, Boonen also acknowledged the unpredictability of these events, where anything can happen. “It’s easy to say that Mathieu is the favorite, but there are so many factors at play. The weather, crashes, and tactics all come into play. But if anyone has the right balance of form, experience, and mental strength, it’s him.”
Looking Ahead to Flanders and Roubaix
As the 2025 season continues to unfold, the anticipation surrounding the Tour of Flanders and Paris-Roubaix grows. Boonen’s insights highlight the evolving dynamics in the Classics and the ongoing battle for supremacy between cycling’s biggest stars. For now, Wout van Aert’s mental advantage over Pogacar and van der Poel’s dominance in the cobbled Classics make them the riders to watch. However, as Boonen knows better than anyone, anything can happen in these grueling races, and it’s this unpredictability that makes them so captivating for fans around the world.
The coming weeks will surely see more tactical battles and thrilling finishes, but for now, the eyes of the cycling world are fixed on Flanders and Roubaix. Will van der Poel continue his reign, or will van Aert prove too strong on the cobbles? Only time will tell.
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