Ploegleider onthult hét grote verschil tussen Girmay en Van der Poel. Team reader review the big deference between Girmay and Mathieu Van der Poel………..

Ploegleider onthult hét grote verschil tussen Girmay en Van der Poel.

Team reader review the big deference between Girmay and Mathieu Van der Poel………..

The cycling world has always been filled with fierce rivalries and awe-inspiring performances. Two names that have stood out in recent years are Biniam Girmay and Mathieu van der Poel. These two riders, from different corners of the world, have captured the imagination of cycling fans across the globe. While they are both immensely talented, there are some notable differences between them that set them apart on and off the bike. A recent review by a team manager or ploegleider (team leader) sheds light on the most significant differences between these two cycling phenoms.

 

### Background and Origins

 

Biniam Girmay, born in 2000 in Eritrea, made history in 2022 when he became the first African rider to win a Grand Tour stage, claiming victory at the 2022 Giro d’Italia. His win was a landmark moment not just for his career but for African cycling as a whole. Girmay’s rise has been nothing short of remarkable, with a deep connection to his roots in Eritrea, a country that has produced many talented riders. Despite the challenges of growing up in a less prominent cycling nation, Girmay’s sheer determination and talent have propelled him onto the international stage.

 

Mathieu van der Poel, on the other hand, hails from the Netherlands, a country that has long been a powerhouse in cycling. Born in 1995, van der Poel is the grandson of the legendary Raymond Poulidor, which means he grew up in a family steeped in cycling history. His rise to prominence has been incredibly fast, thanks to his natural ability and an impressive mix of skills in road racing, cyclocross, and mountain biking. Known for his charisma and flair, van der Poel has become one of the most recognizable faces in modern cycling.

 

### Style and Versatility

 

One of the key differences between Girmay and van der Poel lies in their racing styles. Girmay is often considered more of a classic sprinter with the ability to survive on the tougher stages. His win in the 2022 Giro d’Italia showcased his ability to navigate the high-pressure environment of a Grand Tour, with his quickness in the final meters of a race being one of his biggest strengths. Girmay tends to excel in one-day races and stages with relatively flat terrain but also proves himself capable in more rolling terrain.

 

Van der Poel, however, is known for his versatility across multiple disciplines. He is not only a strong sprinter, but also a top contender in the toughest of mountain stages. His skillset makes him dangerous in every kind of race, from short, punchy one-day events like the Tour of Flanders to the brutal climbs in the Tour de France. Van der Poel’s ability to ride well in cyclocross, where he has won multiple World Championships, and his success in mountain biking set him apart from many of his peers. His aggressive and attacking style is what makes him so captivating to watch, as he frequently takes control of races, even in unpredictable and challenging conditions.

 

### Tactical Approach

 

While both riders are known for their attacking instincts, their tactical approaches vary significantly. Van der Poel often adopts a more aggressive racing style, making daring moves early in races, trying to break away and leave his rivals behind. He isn’t afraid of going on the offensive from a long way out, and this has allowed him to win some spectacular victories. His unpredictable nature, where he can launch a devastating attack at any moment, keeps competitors on edge. Van der Poel’s ability to pull off moves that seem almost impossible has earned him a reputation for being one of the most exciting riders in the peloton.

 

Girmay, in contrast, is a more measured rider. He’s not as reckless in his attacks as van der Poel, often opting for a more calculated approach to his racing. Girmay is known for his intelligent positioning, especially in the final kilometers of a race, and has a keen sense of timing when it comes to launching his sprint. While he’s capable of making bold moves, he tends to reserve his energy until the final moments, using his sprinting prowess to outpace his rivals when the finish line is in sight. This difference in tactics allows Girmay to shine in the final phase of races, particularly in those that involve a sprint finish.

 

### Mentality and Pressure

 

Both riders possess remarkable mental resilience, but their approach to pressure can differ. Girmay’s rise has come with the added pressure of being a trailblazer for African cycling. He is aware of the responsibility on his shoulders, not just for his career but for inspiring young riders from his continent to pursue cycling. Despite this, Girmay has displayed an impressive ability to remain calm under pressure, focusing on his goals without being overwhelmed by expectations. His humility and grounded nature are qualities that set him apart in a sport that often celebrates larger-than-life personalities.

 

Van der Poel, conversely, has been raised in the limelight. Growing up with a legendary family name, he has had to deal with the weight of expectations from a young age. Van der Poel’s confidence and strong mental game have allowed him to thrive in situations where other riders might crack under pressure. He’s often seen pushing himself to the limit, and his determination to win, even in the most challenging conditions, has been a hallmark of his career. While Girmay’s calmness is admirable, van der Poel’s ability to battle through difficult moments and push his limits sets him apart as one of the most mentally tough riders in the peloton.

 

### Team Dynamics

 

When it comes to their roles within their respective teams, Girmay and van der Poel are both leaders, but they approach leadership differently. Girmay, while clearly a rising star, benefits from being in a team with strong leadership that supports him in his goals, particularly during the Grand Tours. He has displayed a maturity beyond his years in navigating the complexities of being a team leader while maintaining a focus on developing his individual strengths.

 

Van der Poel, on the other hand, is often seen as the sole leader of his team, with much of the squad built around supporting his ambitions. His ability to take control of races means that his team often looks to him to set the pace and make key decisions during crucial moments. His leadership style can be seen as more aggressive, where he leads from the front and expects the team to follow his lead, which can sometimes come with the pressure of having to deliver big results.

 

### Conclusion

 

In summary, Biniam Girmay and Mathieu van der Poel are two exceptional cyclists with distinct differences that set them apart. Girmay’s calculated, measured approach contrasts with van der Poel’s aggressive, all-out style. Girmay has made an impact by breaking barriers in African cycling, while van der Poel’s versatility and aggressive race tactics have made him one of the most exciting riders in the world. Both riders bring their own unique qualities to the peloton, and their rivalry will continue to captivate fans for years to come. Whether it’s Girmay’s tactical finishing or van der Poel’s all-out attacks, the future of cycling is undoubtedly in good hands with both riders.