Thibau Nys Returns to Cyclocross at the 2026 Koppenbergcross

Belgian cyclist Thibau Nys is preparing to begin his 2026–2027 cyclocross campaign at the Koppenbergcross on Sunday, November 1. The race in Oudenaarde, Belgium, will mark his first cyclocross appearance of the new season.

For Nys, this is more than just another race. The Koppenbergcross is one of his favourite events, and he has already won it twice, in 2023 and 2025.

A Challenging Road Season Behind Him

Nys experienced a difficult 2026 road season. Knee surgery earlier in the year kept him away from racing for several months, limiting his opportunities to compete.

He later returned to competition, including appearances at the Vuelta a España and the Road World Championships. Now, his attention is turning back to cyclocross.

However, his preparation for the winter season has been shorter than usual. Nys explained that he had to fit important training sessions into a limited period after his road commitments.

Why the Koppenbergcross Is Special for Nys

The Koppenberg is one of the most iconic climbs in Belgian cycling. Its steep cobbled sections make the race particularly demanding, especially in wet and muddy conditions.

The event also has a special place in the Nys family history. His father, Sven Nys, won the race nine times, while Thibau has already added two victories of his own.

The younger Nys has made it clear that he wants to win the race as many times as possible throughout his career. He is aiming for another victory this Sunday rather than simply settling for a podium finish.

What to Expect on November 1

The 2026 Koppenbergcross will be an important early test for Nys as he begins another winter of cyclocross racing.

Despite his limited preparation time, his previous performances on this course make him one of the riders to watch. However, the competition will be strong, and a successful start to the season is far from guaranteed.

Cyclocross fans will be watching closely to see whether Nys can begin his campaign with another memorable performance on the Koppenberg.

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Source: Cyclingnews – Thibau Nys to kick off cyclo-cross campaign at Koppenbergcross