Mathieu van der Poel, competing for Alpecin-Deceuninck, has entered the Critérium du Dauphiné two weeks after fracturing his wrist. Initially expected to be sidelined, he expressed optimism, stating his wrist is not fully healed but manageable. Van der Poel shared his perspective on the risks associated with mountain biking, arguing that it is less perilous than road racing. He views the competition leading up to the Tour de France as beneficial for his performance, stressing the importance of trying new experiences.
"It's annoying me more than it does good, so I'm quite happy I could ride outside pretty quickly after the crash," said Van der Poel to reporters in the mixed zone.
"For me, mountain biking is less dangerous than being in a bunch on the road," said Van der Poel. "It's also something I really love to do, so it's always a risk of cycling that you can crash, but in general, I feel pretty ok."
"It's my first time here, and I think it's better to have some competition for me, before the Tour de France, it's good to try something new sometimes."
"I still feel it - that the wrist is not 100%, but I cannot say that it is really hurting me. The only thing is that I didn't really do any all-out efforts."
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