In addition to Zdenek Stybar, Lars Boom now also wants a taste of cyclo-cross again. "Boom has purchased 40 cross tires and plans (for the first time in three years) to do a few cyclo-cross races," his manager tells AD.

In 2008, world champion Lars Boom was joined on the podium by Zdenek Stybar (2nd) and Sven Nys (3rd). Will those three riders against battle against each other? The chances are growing.

"Lars Boom has indeed plans to do a few cyclo-cross races this winter," his manager Rik van Dongen telss AD.

Last weekend it was revealed that Boom - who recently returned from honeymoon - has bought 40 cross tires. "Soon we will see how we will manage it and what races Boom will ride.

"Boom still likes to train in the forest and is attracted by cyclo-cross. But if he rides any races, it will mainly be to prepare for the road season."

The last time Lars Boom rode in the field was in January 2013. Att the Dutch championships, he was beaten by Lars van der Haar.

Lars Boom (Astana) confirms his desire to do some racing. "I am eager to participate", he tells Het Laatste Nieuws.

"At the moment I train with my cross bike. I had to buy some special tubes because I did not have many left.

"Why do I want to do a couple of races? Because it is fun and a good workout for the road season. I have to look for some dates that fit into my program.

"And I must also get permission from the team (Astana, red). Without their approval, I won't do anything.

"But I do not think that Astana will find it bad that I want to participate in some cross races."