In a breathtaking display of skill and determination, Marion Norbert Riberolle proved once again why she’s the queen of Belgian cyclo-cross, defending her elite women’s title with a commanding solo performance that left spectators in awe. But here’s where it gets even more impressive: despite freezing temperatures and snow-covered terrain, Norbert Riberolle (Crelan-Corendon) dominated the Belgian Cyclo-cross National Championships for the second consecutive year, showcasing her unmatched resilience and tactical prowess. Her victory wasn’t just a repeat of last year’s success—it was a masterclass in how to seize opportunity and maintain control under pressure.
The race in Beringen took a dramatic turn early on when Fleur Moors (Baloise-Glowi Lions), the initial leader, crashed on a muddy corner. This opened the door for Norbert Riberolle, who swiftly took the lead and never looked back. But here’s the controversial part: was Moors’ crash a turning point, or was Norbert Riberolle destined to win regardless? While Moors fought hard to close the gap, she ultimately finished 17 seconds behind, securing silver. Privateer racer Kiona Crabbé rounded out the podium with a strong third-place finish.
What’s fascinating is how Norbert Riberolle extended her lead on the third lap, turning a slim advantage into an unassailable one. Her ability to maintain focus and power through the final laps cemented her victory, leaving no doubt about her dominance. And this is the part most people miss: her performance wasn’t just about physical strength—it was a testament to her mental toughness in challenging conditions.
Earlier in the day, Liese Geuens claimed the junior women’s title, setting the stage for an exciting weekend of racing. The competition continues on Sunday, where the under-23 and elite men’s titles will be decided. Will we see similar displays of dominance, or will new challengers rise to the occasion?
Now, here’s a thought-provoking question for you: In a sport where conditions can change in an instant, how much of cyclo-cross success is skill, and how much is luck? Share your thoughts in the comments—we’d love to hear your take!
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Results powered by FirstCycling (https://firstcycling.com/). Article by Matilda, an NCTJ-qualified journalist with a passion for women’s cycling and sports journalism. Before joining Cyclingnews in March 2025, Matilda served as Racing News Editor at GCN and contributed to publications like Cycling Weekly, Velo, and Red Bull. Her coverage spans major events, including the Giro d’Italia, Tour de France Femmes, and Paris-Roubaix.
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