With just two days before the Cyclocross World Championships, Belgian champion Sven Nys has made his predictions for the race, according to Het Nieuwsblad. At a press conference in a café in the Czech town of Sobeslav, Nys expressed hopes that his physical condition would benefit him more than his strong national team.
“Tactics will play less a role than last year,” said Nys, referring to the race in Hoogerheide, Netherlands where Niels Albert’s early move on the fast, dry circuit was protected by the rest of the Belgians. “It will be more of a cross for men with fitness and technique.”
The cold weather is set to continue which suits the Belgian champion more than most, giving him confidence for the race.
“I’m good in the snow, which is an advantage,” Nys continued. “I’ve already shown that I can come back after losing position. Don’t get me wrong, it is important to be alert on Sunday, to stay at the front and allow no one to pull away.”
Nys’ teammate, reigning World champion Niels Albert is typically confident about his chances of retaining his title on Sunday. The 23-year-old now apparently feels no discomfort from the broken rib he sustained at the Belgian Championships just under three weeks ago.
“No problem, everything’s good,” said a relaxed Albert. “Nevertheless, there are people everywhere that say I can’t win when there’s snow underfoot.
“We’ll see how it turns out,” he said confidently.