Van der Poel, renowned for his versatility and power, is a key card for the cobbled sectors, where his bike-handling skills, explosiveness, and tactical acumen come to the fore. Meanwhile, Olav Kooij, a rising star in sprinting, leads a formidable leadout with clear ambitions of seizing victory, particularly in scenarios that suit his fast finish.
Van der Poel’s reputation as a dominant force in races with cobbled sectors is well-earned. He has an exceptional ability to navigate the rough, uneven terrain, often thriving where others struggle. His victories in prestigious one-day classics, such as the Tour of Flanders and Paris-Roubaix, underscore his prowess on these challenging courses. Van der Poel’s aggressive racing style, combined with his tactical intelligence, allows him to anticipate and respond to the critical moments in the race, whether it’s launching a decisive attack or positioning himself perfectly for a final sprint.
In races featuring cobblestones, Van der Poel is a rider who can take advantage of the chaos that often unfolds. His ability to power through these sections, maintaining momentum while others falter, makes him a genuine threat. Teams know that if Van der Poel is in contention as the race hits the cobbled sectors, he is likely to be a key player in the final outcome.
On the other hand, Olav Kooij, though younger and less experienced than Van der Poel, has already established himself as a sprinter to watch. His role in the team, particularly in scenarios that could end in a sprint, is crucial. Leading a strong leadout, Kooij is responsible for positioning himself perfectly in the final kilometers, using his teammates to fend off rivals and ensuring he has the best possible chance to unleash his powerful sprint. Kooij’s speed, combined with his sharp racing instincts, makes him a formidable contender in any sprint finish.
The combination of Van der Poel’s expertise on the cobbles and Kooij’s sprinting prowess creates a dynamic strategy for the team. Van der Poel can set the race up in the cobbled sectors, softening up the competition or launching a long-range attack, while Kooij can finish the job in a sprint scenario. This dual threat gives their team a versatile approach to race day, with multiple avenues to pursue victory.
