Fem van Empel will not race for Visma | Lease a Bike for the foreseeable future, announcing a pause from competition due to ongoing mental health challenges. The 22-year-old, who recently added another world and European cyclocross title to her impressive record, made the decision in consultation with her team, emphasising the importance of her health and well-being.
Van Empel shared her decision openly through Instagram, stating:
“In recent years, I’ve been on an incredible journey – winning three world and European titles at the highest level of cyclocross. This has required a lot of dedication and daily commitment.”
“Right now, I’m facing some challenges,” Van Empel continued. “After discussing it with the team, we’ve decided that taking a break from racing is the best step for my mental health and well-being. I’ll focus on my recovery with the goal of coming back stronger.”
Visma | Lease a Bike confirmed their full backing for Van Empel, emphasising support and patience during her recovery period. “As a team, we fully support Fem in taking the time and space she needs. We continue to stand by her and wish her a speedy recovery,” the team stated.
Van Empel comes off an intense cyclocross season, achieving her third consecutive European Championship title in Pontevedra, Spain, last November, and successfully defending her World Championship title in Liévin, shortly after.
After shifting focus to the road in early 2025, Van Empel participated in Strade Bianche but was unable to impact the race. Her second road appearance at the Trofeo Alfredo Binda saw a dramatic incident where she narrowly avoided a pedestrian during a descent. Despite escaping injury herself, Van Empel chose to stop and assist fellow riders affected by the incident.
Fellow rider Demi Vollering praised Van Empel’s decision on Instagram, commenting, “Take care Fem!! It’s very strong of you to take a step back—that alone will make you stronger! Because those are precisely the hardest decisions!”
