CX.WC
★★★★
Sunday, January 4, 2026
UCI Cyclocross World Cup Zonhoven–Men Elite
Zonhoven's iconic 'Kuil' (the pit) features notorious deep sand sections that have become legendary in cyclocross. The 2.8km circuit includes steep drops, off-camber turns, and the famous sand pit that can make or break a race.
§ Watch
Where to watch
YouTube
@UCI · highlights
⚠️ Spoiler warning: live streams and broadcaster home pages may show current standings. Disable autoplay & avoid sidebar recommendations on YouTube.
§ 02 — Route Schematic placeholder
UCI Cyclocross World Cup Zonhoven - Men Elite
Schematic built from sector/climb count — not geographically accurate. Real map coming later.
§ 02 — Key Sectors
The decisive pavé
198.5km in
2
The Kuil (Sand Pit)
0.3 km
★★★★★
198.0km in
1
Sand Drop
0.2 km
★★★★★
§ 04 — Favourites
Who to watch
№ 01 · SANDSPECIALISTS
Mathieu van der Poel
№ 02 · SANDSPECIALISTS
Michael Vanthourenhout
№ 03 · POWERRIDERS
Toon Aerts
№ 04 · POWERRIDERS
Laurens Sweeck
№ 05 · YOUNGTALENT
Thibau Nys
№ 06 · YOUNGTALENT
Emiel Verstrynge
§ 05 — Storylines
Narratives to watch
- Van der Poel's sand pit dominance continues
- Belgian rivalry intensifies for World Cup standings
- Young talents looking to break through
§ 07 — Viewing Notes
When to tune in
Watch for the sand pit - technique and power are equally important. Early laps establish the pecking order.