The festive cyclocross period rolls into the New Year on Friday, 2 January 2026 with the Exact Cross Mol, better known as the Zilvermeercross. Set around the sandy shores of the Zilvermeer, Mol is one of the most specialist races of the winter and traditionally provides a pure test of technique, balance, and patience.
This year’s edition offers an immediate rematch between Mathieu van der Poel and Wout van Aert after their disrupted duel in Loenhout. With fewer variables than the Azencross and a layout that punishes mistakes in the sand, Mol is often where the hierarchy between the very best is reasserted.
Key information
- Event: Exact Cross Mol
- Date: Friday 2 January 2026
- Location: Mol, Belgium
Photo Credit: GettyWhat is at stake at the Exact Cross Mol?
Mol is one of the few races on the calendar where sand dominates the narrative from start to finish. The long beach sections along the Zilvermeer, combined with smaller dunes and repeated transitions between rideable and unrideable sand, demand flawless technique and calm decision-making. Riders who overreach early are often punished later in the race.
In the men’s race, attention is firmly fixed on Mathieu van der Poel and Wout van Aert. Their duel in Loenhout hinted at an intriguing balance before Van Aert’s race was derailed by punctures. In Mol, mechanical issues are far less common, placing the emphasis squarely on ability in the sand. That generally favours Van der Poel, who arrives as the clear benchmark on this terrain, but Van Aert has won here before and will view this as a genuine opportunity to measure himself again.
Behind the headline names, the field thins out. With several regular podium contenders skipping Mol, Niels Vandeputte stands out as a consistent threat for a top-three result. Riders such as Joran Wyseure, Mees Hendrikx, Toon Aerts, and Felipe Orts are all capable of taking advantage if the race fragments early and becomes one of attrition rather than speed.
The women’s race also reflects the unique place Mol holds in the calendar. As a standalone event outside the main classification series, it often attracts a different mix of riders. Ceylin del Carmen Alvarado arrives as the standout name and carries favourite status given her consistency and past success here. While her winter has not been without issues, Mol’s terrain suits her ability to manage effort and remain technically precise.
Manon Bakker enters as a credible challenger after a noticeable improvement over the past week, particularly on faster circuits that resemble Mol’s rhythm. Kristýna Zemanová also deserves attention after her strong showing in Loenhout, where she demonstrated the ability to handle high-level competition over mixed surfaces. Jolanda Neff adds intrigue, returning briefly to cyclocross with the ambition of turning potential into a result.
How can you watch the Exact Cross Mol in the UK?
Viewers in the UK can watch the Exact Cross Mol via Warner Bros. Discovery platforms.
Discovery+ will stream both elite races live, while TNT Sports may carry selected linear coverage depending on scheduling.
How can you watch the Exact Cross Mol in Belgium?
Belgian viewers can follow the Exact Cross Mol live on VRT1, with coverage provided by Sporza.
Additional live coverage is available via Eurosport 1 and HBO Max, depending on provider and subscription.
How can you watch the Exact Cross Mol across Europe?
Across mainland Europe, Eurosport 1 will broadcast the race live in several territories.
Streaming access is also available through HBO Max in selected countries, subject to local broadcast rights.
How can you watch the Exact Cross Mol in North America and Australia?
In the United States, the Exact Cross Mol is available via HBO Max.
There is no confirmed broadcast coverage in Canada or Australia for this event.
Is there a free live stream for the Exact Cross Mol?
Free live coverage is available in Belgium via VRT1 and Sporza’s online platforms.
Outside Belgium, free streaming options are limited due to broadcast agreements and geo-restrictions.
What time do the races start at the Exact Cross Mol?
All times listed below are GMT.
- Women Elite starts at 12:30
- Men Elite starts at 13:50
Broadcasters may begin coverage shortly before the scheduled start times.
