Mathieu van der Poel, a Dutch professional cyclist, is well-known not only for his accomplishments in road racing and cyclocross but also for his personal life, which offers a unique glimpse into his personality. Although van der Poel maintains a relatively private profile compared to some other high-profile athletes, he has shared aspects of his life that reflect his grounded nature, passion for outdoor activities, and close-knit family connections.
Van der Poel grew up in a sporting family, with both his father, Adri van der Poel, and his grandfather, Raymond Poulidor, being professional cyclists. This background helped shape his disciplined and competitive approach to cycling, but it also influenced the way he values family. He has often been open about how much he enjoys spending time with his relatives, particularly his brother David, who is also a professional cyclist. The strong family bond is a key part of van der Poel’s social life, with family members often seen supporting him at races and serving as his closest circle of friends.
Outside of cycling, van der Poel is an avid fan of nature and outdoor adventures. He frequently shares moments from his outdoor activities, whether it’s fishing, hiking, or simply exploring natural landscapes. This connection to nature seems to be an important part of how he balances the high demands of his professional career with relaxation and mental recovery. Van der Poel has spoken in interviews about how he values these moments as a way to recharge and disconnect from the intense pressure of competitive racing.
In terms of relationships, van der Poel has kept his romantic life relatively low-key. He has been in a long-term relationship with Roxanne Bertels, a Belgian model and marketing executive. Their relationship has been described as supportive and stable, with Bertels occasionally making public appearances alongside him, particularly at important races. However, both van der Poel and Bertels tend to keep their personal lives out of the spotlight, preferring to maintain privacy and focus on their individual careers.
Social media plays a significant role in van der Poel’s public persona, but his presence is more subdued compared to some of his peers. He uses platforms like Instagram primarily to share updates about his training, racing victories, and the occasional glimpse into his personal life, such as his outdoor hobbies or family moments. His posts often reflect his passion for cycling and nature rather than a curated, celebrity-like image. This down-to-earth approach resonates with his fans, many of whom appreciate his humility and focus on the sport itself.
In essence, van der Poel’s social life is characterized by a balance between his intense commitment to cycling and his love for family, nature, and privacy. He maintains a grounded, genuine persona, preferring real-world connections and personal well-being over the spotlight.