Cyclo-cross organisers working with police to tackle abusive spectators after Van der Poel spitting incident

The organisers of the X2O Trofee in Koksijde are working more closely with Belgian police to tackle abusive language and actions from spectators at the next major cyclo-cross event taking place on Thursday.

This comes after Mathieu van der Poel spat at spectators who were allegedly booing and throwing beer and urine at the world champion during the World Cup round in Hulst on 30 December. Van der Poel received a 250 CHF fine for his actions.

Read more: Mathieu van der Poel spits at booing spectators on way to Hulst victory

In an interview with Het Nieuwsblad, Jan Deramoudt from the Koksijde organisation outlined how Thursday’s race will have added police presence, and riders will be invited to point out any abusive groups or individuals during their recon ahead of the race. Van der Poel said the fans he targeted had been booing him even during training laps.

“If during the exploratory training rounds riders are confronted with people who attack them with boos and swear words or who pelt them with cups of beer and urine, they can warn us before the start,” Deramoudt said. “We are in direct contact with the police, who will make extra efforts this edition of the Duinencross to prevent so-called supporters from disturbing or hindering the participants.”

According to Deramoudt, these extra efforts may include the use of police drones and plain-clothed police officers to increase their presence. He was, however, keen to point out that these measures are in place in response to “the current situation”.

The issue of spectators’ treatment of riders - particularly the way Belgian fans react to Dutch riders - has long been simmering in the world of cyclo-cross, and Van der Poel’s reaction was not the first time a rider has confronted a fan.

However, the blatant nature of Van der Poel’s retaliation - TV cameras replayed the world champion spitting on the final lap on his way to victory - created a big conversation around the issue, and reignited discussions on how riders can be better protected from unruly audiences.

“As an organisation, we are taking the lead in eliminating this problem from cyclo-cross,” Deramoudt said. “It is our duty as an organisation to take care of both the public and the riders. Everyone should be able to experience cyclo-cross in a fun and safe way: whether you are supporting, working or cycling.”

In the case of Koksijde, the organisers have contacted several riders and their teams to encourage them to inform the organisers or the police of any inappropriate behaviour from spectators.

“If the riders or their entourage report such misconduct, we will intervene immediately.”