Philipsen on Van der Poel’s Omloop debut: 'We’re collectively stronger'

When Jasper Philipsen’s race schedule for the first block of the 2026 season was announced, it was clear that an emphasis had been placed on one-day races.

Out of his first ten races, nine of them are one day fixtures, and the only stage-race, the Volta ao Algarve, has already been checked off.

Philipsen didn’t get off to the winning start he would have hoped for in Portugal, but the Belgian rider looked optimistically towards Opening Weekend and the upcoming Classics when speaking to HLN in Portugal.

“For classic cyclists whose hearts beat for quintessential Flemish races: incredibly important,” Philipsen told HLN when asked about the importance of Opening Weekend. “The Omloop and Kuurne-Brussels-Kuurne are, in that respect, the first major and important events of the year.”

Out of all the Classics, there’s one that stands above all for Philipsen and it’s a race he has performed exceptionally well in before, Paris-Roubaix. Philipsen finished second in two consecutive editions in 2023 and 2024 behind teammate Mathieu van der Poel, before helping the Dutchman complete his hat-trick in 2025.

“If I had the choice, it would be easy, of course. Of all the classics, Paris-Roubaix is ‘The Holy Grail,’” said Philipsen on which race he dreams of winning.

“But I think I just have to take what I can, because the opportunities are limited in the spring anyway. So I'll be very happy if I win the Omloop on Saturday.” 

Speaking of Mathieu van der Poel, the Dutchman is set to make his debut at Omloop Nieuwsblad on Saturday, February 28, and his presence on the start list could significantly impact the dynamics of the race as a pre-event favourite. Philipsen, who shares a successful partnership with Van der Poel on the bike, is looking at the positives of the Dutchman’s presence.

“The weather conditions will play a major role in that. And how we'll approach it internally, right? We'll see, said Philipsen on if he expects a sprint on Saturday, before being asked if he was referring to his teammate Van der Poel.

“An offensive race, a sprint... I think we're well prepared and should be able to compete for victory in several possible scenarios.”

Ultimately, Philipsen believes that Van der Poel helps to take pressure off his own shoulders and doesn’t change his objectives at the race.

“For me personally: not much. Because, in a sense, I can also benefit from it,” said Philipsen when asked what changes with Van der Poel’s presence.

"Especially in terms of group dynamics, it's different and better. Without him, we might have raced with a more open mind. Now we're collectively stronger, we're starting with a clearer plan. And above all: with a clear leader."

The 81st edition of Omloop Nieuwsblad takes place on Saturday, February 28, and features a strong field including Philipsen and Van der Poel.