The Netherlands - On 8 November, Europe's best cyclo-cross riders gathered in Zeddam, where the iconic stairs added an extra challenge in the battle for the European titles. Belgian Cycling delivered an outstanding performance, with Thibau Nys claiming the elite men's European title and leading an all-Belgian podium alongside Joran Wyseure and Niels Vandeputte.
📸 Images: Belga Image, Blueframe media & Golazo
99 Steps to glory
Twenty years after hosting the 2006 Cyclo-Cross World Championships, Zeddam welcomed Europe's best cyclo-cross riders back to its historic course, all chasing the prestigious European title. Designed by Erwin Vervecken, who claimed the world title in Zeddam in 2006, the 2.97 km circuit combined fast stretches across open fields with steep climbs and technical sections that demanded precise bike handling. The course followed much of the original route, with fast stretches across open fields to build speed, with steep climbs and technical sections that demanded precise bike handling.
Zeddam offered a relatively dry and firm course, with chilly temperatures and a light breeze adding to the challenge. The fast-paced racing left little room for error. The biggest obstacle was Zeddam's legendary 99-step staircase, stretching over 50 metres. From there, riders continued past the historic Grafelijke Korenmolen via a new bridge. With 12,500 passionate cycling fans cheering along the course throughout the championship weekend, the atmosphere was electric.
Stairway to European stars
The elite men's race turned into a thrilling Belgian battle for the European title. After a fast opening, Thibau Nys increased the pace and opened a gap halfway through the race. Joran Wyseure fought his way back to the front, setting up an intense duel between the two Belgians. With the chasing riders never far behind, the battle remained wide open heading into the final lap.
The decisive moment came on Zeddam's iconic 99-step staircase. Nys launched a powerful acceleration, leaving Wyseure unable to follow. From there, he extended his lead and crossed the finish line after 59 minutes and 37 seconds to claim his second European cyclo-cross title. Wyseure secured silver, just seven seconds behind, while Niels Vandeputte won the sprint for bronze. A historic all-Belgian podium to round off an unforgettable championship weekend!
Belgian medal mania
Belgian Cycling dominated Zeddam the whole weekend, finishing at the top of the medal table with an impressive eight medals: three gold, two silver and three bronze. Belgium matched the combined medal total of France and the Netherlands, who each finished with four medals.
Beyond the historic all Belgian podium in the elite men's race, the next generation of Belgian talent also delivered outstanding performances. At just 16 years old, Lars Peers and Lentel Huys were crowned European champions in the junior categories, while Bas Vanden Eynde added another bronze medal. In the men's U23 race, Giel Lejeune secured silver and Viktor Vandenberghe completed the podium with bronze.
With eight podium finishes across four categories, Belgian Cycling once again proved that cyclo-cross is deeply rooted in Belgian DNA. An unforgettable championship weekend that reinforced Belgium’s status as a true powerhouse in the sport and showed why Belgium is the heart of cycling.
Packed for the podium
At the highest level of cyclo-cross, every detail matters. From explosive starts to the final sprint, riders need equipment that can keep up with the demands of racing. The Epic Cyclo-Cross Long Sleeve Suit offers extra coverage when temperatures drop, while allowing riders to move freely during intense efforts. Especially in cyclo-cross, where riders constantly switch between cycling and running, comfort is essential.
And what's a winning suit without the perfect pair of socks? The Aero Socks complete the race outfit, proving that even in the mud every watt counts. From the iconic 99 steps to the top of the podium, Bioracer supported the Belgian riders every step of the way.