Sven Nys will be one of the seven Belgians at the World Championships on February 1 in Tabor. National coach Rudy De Bie has no doubt about the selections. "Unless he decides to skip the race himself," he says.

Last Sunday Sven Nys was unable to be in contention for the win in his comeback race in Diegem. He finished 16th, 2.20 behind winner Mathieu van der Poel. Is that enough to be selected for the World Championships in the Czech Republic?

For national coach Rudy De Bie, Nys has a guaranteed spot. "First of all because he is... Nys. A classy rider with an impressive palmares who has had a huge impact on Belgian cyclo-cross. There is no way around the fact that he deserves respect," he told Het Laatste Nieuws. 

"Even though Sven is not exactly a medal contender, he plays an important role. His experience and tactical expertise can add value and then he can create peace within the group."

"There could also be a certain evolution," De Bie added. "If he gets better and his physical situation falls into place, then he will be able to use January to prepare for the Worlds better than ever before. No stress

"Otherwise, I will not even have to intervene because then Sven will undoubtedly withdraw from the race. But again, I don't see that happening."