Winter's icy grip is tightening around the cyclo-cross National Championships in Belgium and the Netherlands this weekend, threatening to turn what should be a celebration of grit and endurance into a logistical nightmare. But here's where it gets controversial: while cyclo-cross is a sport born in the cold, bleak winters of northern Europe, even the hardiest of riders and organizers are questioning whether this weekend's conditions might cross the line from challenging to dangerous. With snowfall heavy enough to ground flights at Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport for days, the question looms—can the Nationals go on as planned?
Cyclo-cross enthusiasts are no strangers to racing through snow and slush. Events like the Val di Sole World Cup, held almost entirely on snow, and the recent Exact Cross Mol, where a snowstorm became as much of a competitor as the riders themselves, are testaments to the sport's resilience. And this is the part most people miss: while snow might be par for the course, it’s the excessive ice, high winds, and official danger warnings that could force organizers to make tough calls. After all, even the most seasoned riders have their limits.
For Belgium (https://www.cyclingnews.com/belgian-cyclocross-national-championships/) and the Netherlands (https://www.cyclingnews.com/dutch-cyclocross-national-championships/), the heartlands of cyclo-cross, this weekend’s championships are more than just races—they’re a cultural event. But with schedule changes and additional course checks already on the table, fans and athletes alike are holding their breath. Will the weather steal the show, or will the spirit of cyclo-cross prevail?
Here’s a thought to chew on: If the conditions become too extreme, should organizers prioritize safety over tradition? Or is pushing through the elements part of what makes cyclo-cross so uniquely thrilling? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
For the latest updates, race content, interviews, features, reviews, and expert buying guides, subscribe to our newsletter and stay ahead of the curve. And don’t forget to confirm your public display name before joining the conversation—simply log out and log back in to set it up.
Written by Matilda, an NCTJ-qualified journalist based in the UK, who joined Cyclingnews in March 2025. With a background as Racing News Editor at GCN and contributions to Cycling Weekly, Velo, Rouleur, Escape Collective, Red Bull, and more, Matilda brings a wealth of experience covering major events like the Giro d'Italia, Tour de France Femmes, Tour of Flanders, and Paris-Roubaix. Her expertise in women's cycling and sports journalism adds depth to every story she tells.
