Denise Betsema has faced a challenging season so far, frequently struggling to secure top-10 finishes. Speaking to Wielerflits after the X2O Trofee in Koksijde, where she finished ninth, the Dutch rider admitted the race did not go as planned.
“It was a tough race. I didn’t feel great. It’s a bit of a struggle at the moment,” Betsema shared. “Normally, I’d perform well in races like this, but I felt heavy legs today.” Her result left her over three minutes behind winner Puck Pieterse, a gap Betsema would not have expected in better form.
Adding to her struggles, Betsema revealed she had suffered a fall in Besançon, aggravating her knee. “That certainly hasn’t helped. But mostly, I’m searching for the right form. The Christmas period was full of ups and downs for me. There were a few good races where I felt better, so I hold on to the belief that the good feeling will come back soon. But I won’t deny it—this is a tough period.”
Contract extended but uncertainty lingers
Despite a season that hasn’t matched her usual standards, Betsema recently secured a short-term contract extension with Pauwels Sauzen-Cibel Clementines. Initially set to end in December, her contract now runs until the end of February, covering the remainder of the cyclocross season.
When asked about the brief extension, Betsema expressed mixed emotions. “Am I happy with it? Yes, given the circumstances. It’s a difficult time to switch teams. The logistics—equipment and all the associated stuff—are complicated,” she said. “But I’m also pleased with the team’s confidence in me. I hope to show the sponsors what I can do at the front over the next two months. There have been conversations with other teams, but I feel comfortable here. It’s good to have that trust.”
Still, her future beyond February remains unclear, with the team hesitant to commit long-term. Betsema admitted, “The short contract was also the team’s decision, and I understand that. They want a rider who can compete at the front, and I’m convinced I’ll get back to that level. For now, I’m focused on performing in the World Cups—I need those points too.”
Rumours dismissed
In recent weeks, speculation arose suggesting Betsema might start her own team, rumours she firmly denied. “I don’t know where that came from,” she said. “I even heard it was mentioned on Belgian TV. It surprised me, but it’s not true. It’s not something I’ve ever considered.”
For now, Betsema remains focused on rediscovering her form and making the most of her time with Pauwels Sauzen-Cibel Clementines, determined to fight her way back to the top of the cyclocross standings.
