#dutch-national-team

#dutch-national-team

"Two years ago, I had a few operations. It was all bad then. But it all worked out in the end. I have check-ups every few months, and that's going well. I'm getting fitter and fitter."

With Hato not set to turn 20 until next March, it seems a bit silly to be talking about his early career, as he's still in it!

"With the women we had 11 or 12 wildcards. With the men's team I gave away only one wildcard, and it's to Mathieu. And that's the one you want to give it to. Mathieu signed up at the last minute and I was very happy," Laurens ten Dam remarked, highlighting the strategic decision of selecting Van der Poel, a rider who is crucial for the team's success and brings immense talent to the competition.