On November 11, the traditional Jaarmarktcross in Niel is on the schedule. This year the cyclo-cross riders will have to overcome a very special obstacle: a ‘cobweb’ will separate the best from the rest on the shores of the Rupel River.

Perennial favourites Wout van Aert and Mathieu van der Poel will not be in Niel and thus the organizers of the Jaarmarktcross have tried to attract spectators in a different way.

This season they do so by creating a ‘cobweb’. This is a zone in which 'the riders ride to the middle from the outside and then go out again in the opposite direction.’ The remainder of the course remains unchanged in Niel.

Last year, Kevin Pauwels won the Jaarmarktcross and he also wants to have a shot at victory this year. 

"I have had no victory yet and I would like to change that in Niel. As Wout and Mathieu are absent, there are opportunities. To return to where you have is always fun,” he told Sporza.

"Last year I had a good period at this time of the season. I always need time before the engine really kicks in. In recent weeks, I have started to ride a little better. I feel better on the bike again."