OUDENAARDE, BELGIUM - NOVEMBER 01: Thibau Nys of Belgium and Team Baloise Glowi Lions celebrates at finish line as race winner during the 36th Trofee Oudenaarde - Koppenbergcross 2025 - Men's Elite on November 01, 2025 in Oudenaarde, Belgium. (Photo by Luc Claessen/Getty Images)
The 2025-26 cyclocross season commenced with an impressive performance from European champion Thibau Nys of Baloise Glowi Lions, who secured a solo victory at the Koppenbergcross. This event marks the first round of the X2O Trofee series, showcasing Nys’s readiness to dominate the upcoming season.
At just 22 years old, Nys has already made a significant mark in the cycling world. After concluding his road season in August, he expressed his commitment to a lengthy cyclocross campaign, missing only the initial two weekends of competition. His determination paid off as he took the lead on the second lap, displaying exceptional skill and strategy throughout the race.
Thrilling Race Unfolds
As Nys began to pull away, British champion Cameron Mason of Seven Racing briefly kept pace. However, Nys’s decisive move on the iconic Koppenberg climb solidified his lead, allowing him to engage with enthusiastic fans while crossing the finish line. Nys raised his arms in triumph, marking a successful start to his cyclocross season.
Mason, despite suffering a setback with a broken shoe following a fall at the end of lap four, demonstrated resilience and crossed the line in second place, finishing 21 seconds behind Nys. His determination throughout the race highlighted his competitive spirit, even in challenging circumstances.
Completing the podium was Belgian rider Pim Ronhaar, also from Baloise Glowi Lions, who finished 1 minute and 44 seconds behind Nys. Ronhaar’s performance adds to the strong presence of the Baloise Glowi Lions team in this season’s opening race.
Looking Ahead
The Koppenbergcross not only sets the tone for Nys’s cyclocross season but also raises expectations for the upcoming races in the X2O Trofee series. With his solid start, Nys aims to build on this momentum as he competes in the weeks ahead.
As the season progresses, all eyes will be on both Nys and Mason, who will undoubtedly seek to improve upon their performances. The excitement of cyclocross racing continues to draw fans and participants alike, promising thrilling competition throughout the season.
“I’m really happy with this victory,” said Nys after the race. “It’s a great way to kick off the season, and I look forward to what’s next.”
Results and further insights from the race are available through FirstCycling, providing fans with detailed statistics and analysis.
