Tot €20.000-50.000 per wedstrijd? Mathieu van der Poel en Wout van Aert spreken zich uit over startgelden in het veldrijden voor 2025

 

Cyclocross is a sport that thrives on grit, mud, and the excitement of seeing the best riders face off in unpredictable conditions. However, behind the scenes, there’s a lesser-known, yet significant part of the sport: **start fees**. These fees, particularly in cyclocross, are crucial for event organizers who want to attract top riders like Wout van Aert and Mathieu van der Poel. While these fees are rarely discussed openly, insiders have started shedding light on the numbers involved.

The Insider’s Revelation
A recent report by Het Laatste Nieuws revealed some intriguing details about the start fees of top cyclocross riders. According to an anonymous source, **Wout van Aert** and **Mathieu van der Poel**, two of the biggest names in the sport, can earn up to **€20,000** just to line up at a cyclocross event. This figure was confirmed as more realistic compared to the inflated reports that often circulate. For example, **Gazzetta dello Sport** had recently claimed that these top riders could earn as much as €50,000 per race—a figure that the insider dismissed as “pure nonsense.”

Start fees are essential for event organizers, especially during the busy Christmas period, when cyclocross races take place almost daily. These fees not only cover

the rider’s appearance but also serve as a way to secure top talent and ensure high attendance, both in the stands and on TV. Organizers understand that securing riders like van Aert or van der Poel guarantees a significant boost in spectatorship and media attention.

 

The Role of Start Fees in Cyclocross Events

Start fees are more than just a financial transaction—they’re a way to make sure smaller, non-cup races get the kind of exposure they need. Take Gullegem, for example, which might not be as prestigious as UCI World Cup events but still saw a record 15,000 spectators** this winter. The reason? Wout van Aert was there. His participation brought in huge crowds, proving the direct correlation between star power and event success.

Beyond the money, start fees are also critical for **riders’ preparation**. For many top riders, the cyclocross season is a way to maintain fitness ahead of the road racing calendar. While both van Aert and van der Poel often focus on road races, their presence at cyclocross events helps them build form and test their limits in different conditions.

The Impact on the Sport
The entire cyclocross ecosystem relies on these financial arrangements. While the exact figures vary, the reality remains that event organizers have to balance paying top riders and ensuring the event remains profitable. These figures, while steep, are a necessary investment for the sport’s continued growth and exposure.

In conclusion, start fees in cyclocross may remain a sensitive topic, but understanding their role sheds light on the delicate balance that keeps the sport alive. For top riders, these fees are part of the business of racing; for organizers, they are a key to success.