Ryan Kamp admits trying to irritate Wout van Aert in early laps of CX World Championships: “Getting in the way is saying a lot, but still”

Ryan Kamp admits trying to irritate Wout van Aert in early laps of CX World Championships: “Getting in the way is saying a lot, but still”

 

In a candid admission, Ryan Kamp revealed that he intentionally tried to irritate Wout van Aert during the early laps of the Cyclocross World Championships, held in February 2025. Kamp, known for his aggressive racing style, confessed that he sought to disrupt van Aert’s rhythm in an attempt to gain an advantage. His strategy was simple but effective: getting in the way of the Belgian superstar. The comment has since stirred conversations in the cyclocross world, as it shines a light on the intense mental warfare that often takes place in top-tier races.

 

Kamp’s remark, “Getting in the way is saying a lot, but still,” reflects both the complexity and subtlety of his tactics. While on the surface, such a move may seem like a petty or desperate attempt to rattle a competitor, it reveals a deeper layer of psychological racing. Cyclocross is not just a test of physical endurance and technical skill, but also of mental strength and the ability to remain calm under pressure. By intentionally obstructing van Aert, Kamp was trying to break his focus and throw him off balance—two key factors that could be decisive in such a high-stakes event.

 

Wout van Aert, a dominant figure in cyclocross and a multiple-time World Champion, is known for his near-impeccable consistency and focus. However, even the most mentally tough riders have their moments of vulnerability, and Kamp was keen to exploit any potential weaknesses. By positioning himself in ways that forced van Aert to maneuver around him or lose precious time, Kamp sought to disrupt the rhythm that van Aert relies on to maintain his superior pace.

 

This admission also speaks to the increasing tactical complexity in modern cyclocross races. The sport, once primarily about raw physical prowess, has evolved into a battle of not just legs but minds. Riders are constantly looking for ways to outsmart their opponents, using everything from technical skills to psychological gamesmanship. Kamp’s approach exemplifies how races have become a chess match, with riders trying to outmaneuver and outthink one another at every turn.

 

For van Aert, such tactics are nothing new. As one of the most sought-after competitors in cyclocross, he regularly faces aggressive challenges from riders seeking to disrupt his flow. However, the fact that Kamp openly acknowledged his attempt to irritate him adds a layer of transparency to the strategies employed in the sport. In a way, it humanizes the competition, reminding fans that even the most elite riders are vulnerable to mental disruptions.

 

Kamp’s remarks also have broader implications for the cycling community, as they suggest a shift in how races are approached. The days of simply riding hard and hoping for the best are long gone. In the modern era, mental tactics and psychological warfare are as crucial as physical strength. Riders are constantly looking for ways to exploit any slight advantage, and getting in the way of a rival like van Aert can be just as important as executing the perfect line on a technical section.

 

Ultimately, Ryan Kamp’s admission is a testament to the increasing complexity and intensity of elite cyclocross racing. By openly acknowledging his attempt to irritate van Aert, Kamp has sparked a conversation about the mental aspects of the sport, emphasizing how a rider’s ability to stay calm under pressure can be just as important as their physical ability. In a sport where every second counts, sometimes the smallest distractions can make all the difference.