Marianne Vos, an illustrious figure in the world of cycling, is set to make her much-anticipated return to the cyclo-cross scene on December 29 at the prestigious World Cup event in Besançon, France. The eight-time world champion’s comeback has been confirmed by the Royal Dutch Cycling Union (KNWU), generating excitement among fans and fellow competitors alike. At 37 years old, Vos’s return represents not only a personal milestone but also a significant moment for the sport as she resumes competition after a notable hiatus.
The decision to participate in the Besançon event comes with strategic implications for Vos’s future racing plans. The KNWU has indicated that her performance in this race will be instrumental in determining whether she will compete in the upcoming cyclo-cross World Championships scheduled for January 31 in Liévin, France. This assessment underscores the importance of the Besançon event not just as a return to form but as a critical benchmark for the level of competition and form that Vos aims to achieve ahead of the World Championships.
It is noteworthy that Vos has significant experience and accomplishments to build upon, despite her absence from cyclo-cross since January of the previous year. Her last appearance in this discipline was during the Benidorm World Cup, after which she took a break from the sport to recover from iliac surgery. This medical interruption has undoubtedly tested her resilience, yet Vos is eager to reengage with cyclo-cross, a discipline that she has excelled in over the years. National coach Gerben de Knegt expressed enthusiasm about her return, emphasizing the importance of the Besançon race for Vos’s upcoming decisions.
While Vos has been away from cyclo-cross, she has continued to showcase her prowess in road cycling. In 2023, she enjoyed a remarkable campaign, clinching significant victories such as the Amstel Gold Race, Omloop Het Nieuwsblad, and two stages of the Vuelta a España. Additionally, her triumph at the Gravel World Championships in Leuven, Belgium, where she donned the coveted rainbow jersey, further solidifies her status as one of the most versatile and accomplished cyclists in the sport today.
The Netherlands will field a strong team of eleven women at the French round of the World Cup, including Fem van Empel, the reigning world champion and Vos’s team-mate at Visma-Lease a Bike. Van Empel’s inclusion represents the depth of talent that the Dutch team possesses, while the anticipation surrounding her performance in Besançon is paired with interest in how Vos will reintegrate into the competitive environment after her period away from the sport.
The Besançon event is not without other significant competitors. Esteemed cyclists such as Lucinda Brand and Ceylin Alvarado are expected to participate, promising a thrilling contest for fans and participants alike. However, it is worth noting that rising star Puck Pieterse has decided to forgo this round, shifting the dynamics and possible outcomes of the race. This absence may open opportunities for other contenders to assert their dominance.
As cycling enthusiasts prepare for the upcoming 2025 cycling season, which will include iconic events such as the Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes, the return of Marianne Vos to cyclo-cross adds an additional layer of intrigue to an already exciting landscape. The multifaceted nature of her career and her upcoming decisions regarding the World Championship elevate expectations for the Besançon event and the sport in general. Her journey continues to inspire many, as she remains a central figure in competitive cycling, captivating fans with her resilience and sporting spirit.
