Ruddervoorde plays host to the third round of the Superprestige series this Sunday. Located in West Flanders, Ruddervoorde has become a regular stop for the Superprestige series. It was first raced in 1988 and has been held every year since (except for 1990). It should come as no surprise that Sven Nys has the most victories, winning the race ten times.
Mathieu van der Poel has won the past two editions of this race and currently leads the series overall with 30 points. Van der Poel won the first two rounds of the Superprestige and looks to extend his lead with a win on Sunday. Toon Aerts sits second overall with 27 points and his teammate, Lars van der Haar, is in third with 22 points. Wout van Aert slipped to seventh overall after missing last weekends race in Boom.
Riders will be met with a twisty, challenging track on Sunday. The course is a good mix of grass, sand and pavement. The sand sections are on the longer side and will pose a challenge to even the best riders. There’s a set of stairs that will force riders off their bike and several punchy climbs. All in all, it’s a very traditional, Belgian cross course.
As previously mentioned, Mathieu van der Poel won last years race in dominating fashion. Van der Poel pushed the pace through the long sandpit on the first lap and never looked back. During the second lap, he was able to get a gap on a hard charging Wout van Aert and held it to the line. Lars van der Haar finished in third place, narrowly beating Toon Aerts. All four of those riders are on great form and should be in the mix for the podium on Sunday.
Predictions
- Mathieu van Der Poel
- Wout van Aert
- Toon Aerts
Dark horse: Gianni Vermeersch
