TL;DR
The 2024/25 UCI Cyclo-cross World Cup began with an exciting race at Scheldecross Antwerpen on November 24, 2024, along the banks of the Schelde River in Antwerp, Belgium. In tough conditions featuring sandy terrain and strong winds, Fem van Empel dominated the Women Elite race with steady pacing, while Eli Iserbyt claimed victory in the Men Elite category through consistent strategy. This thrilling season opener showcased the best of Belgian cyclocross events, setting the tone for an action-packed European cyclocross circuit.
The 2024/25 UCI Cyclo-cross World Cup kicked off with an electrifying season opener on November 24, 2024, in Antwerp, Belgium. Known as Scheldecross Antwerpen, this event took place along the iconic banks of the Schelde River, showcasing world-class performances in challenging conditions. Here’s everything you need to know about this thrilling start to the European cyclocross circuit.
Key Race Dynamics
- Challenging Terrain: The course in Antwerp featured tough sand sections and technical turns, which created early gaps and tested riders’ skills and endurance. Mistakes in these areas often proved costly.
- Weather Impact: Strong southern winds added an extra layer of difficulty, especially on open stretches, requiring riders to carefully manage their energy and positioning.
- Dominant Strategies: Fem van Empel showcased a steady tempo strategy, breaking away early in the Women Elite race, while Eli Iserbyt relied on consistent pacing to secure his win in the Men Elite race.
Race Course
Image Credit: UCI Cyclo-Cross World Cup
The Scheldecross Antwerpen course, located along the banks of the Schelde River, delivered a challenging and dynamic route for the 2024/25 UCI Cyclo-cross World Cup opener. This iconic venue in Antwerp, Belgium, combined natural landscapes with technical features to test riders’ skills and endurance. The course featured sandy sections near the riverbank, demanding precise bike handling and balance, while tight corners and sharp turns required exceptional control. Riders also faced barriers that necessitated dismounting and running, showcasing classic cyclocross techniques.
The open areas along the river exposed competitors to strong headwinds, adding another layer of difficulty to the already demanding terrain. Slight elevation changes further tested riders’ pacing and stamina. The start and finish zones were strategically placed near spectator areas to maximize excitement, while a dedicated pit area allowed teams to perform quick bike changes during the race. Fans enjoyed amenities such as catering zones, big screens for live race coverage, and the lively Maes Matenbar feesttent, creating an electric atmosphere.
This course exemplified the essence of Belgian cyclocross events, blending technical challenges with scenic views. It provided a perfect stage for elite riders to showcase their abilities in front of an enthusiastic crowd, solidifying Antwerp’s reputation as a premier destination on the European cyclocross circuit.
Race Results
Men
Image Credit: UCI Cyclo-Cross World Cup
The 2024-25 Cyclo-cross Antwerp race delivered thrilling performances across all categories, with elite riders showcasing their skills on the challenging Scheldecross Antwerpen course. The Men Elite Race was dominated by Belgian riders, with Eli Iserbyt of Pauwels Sauzen–Bingoal claiming victory after a tight contest. Laurens Sweeck secured second place, while Michael Vanthourenhout completed the podium in third. The Belgian racers demonstrated their strength in both the Men Junior and Under-23 Men by completely taking over the podiums.
Women
Image Credit: UCI Cyclo-Cross World Cup
The Women Elite Race was a showcase of Dutch dominance, as Fem van Empel of Visma-Lease a Bike claimed her third consecutive victory in Antwerp. She maintained a steady pace throughout the race, overcoming the sandy sections and headwinds to secure first place. Lucinda Brand finished second, while Marie Schreiber rounded out the top three. In the junior category, Nico Knoll from Canada emerged victorious in the Women Junior Race, followed closely by Mae Cabaca and Sanne Laurijssen.
Conclusion
The 2024/25 UCI Cyclo-cross World Cup opener in Antwerp was a thrilling showcase of elite cyclocross racing on the banks of the Schelde River, setting the tone for an exciting European cyclocross circuit. The Scheldecross Antwerpen course combined technical challenges, like sandy sections and sharp turns, with unpredictable weather, highlighting the grit and skill of riders like Fem van Empel and Eli Iserbyt, who emerged victorious in their respective races. This event not only celebrated the essence of Belgian cyclocross events but also reinforced Antwerp's status as a premier destination for winter cycling events. As the 2024 CX season opener, it delivered unforgettable moments for fans and competitors alike. Let’s cycle to Mars together!
