Dutch cycling team selection announced for 2026 World Championships

Dutch national cycling coach Koos Moerenhout has announced the selection for the 2026 World Cycling Championships in Montréal. Mathieu van der Poel is a key figure in the squad, though Moerenhout noted that the race dynamics may shift depending on whether Tadej Pogacar participates.

Several notable riders will be absent from the selection. Thymen Arensman will not compete due to team commitments with INEOS, a decision Moerenhout criticized as a sign of how professional cycling has evolved toward sponsor interests over national prestige. Additionally, Huub Artz is ruled out following a broken scaphoid sustained during the Renewi Tour.

Regarding Pogacar, cycling legend Eddy Merckx has expressed doubts about the Slovenian's ability to defend his title, suggesting that his recent injuries, including a neck vertebra injury, require a cautious approach. Meanwhile, Paul Seixas is preparing for the GP de Québec and GP de Montréal as part of his buildup to the World Championships.