Three-time Cyclocross World Champion Fem van Empel is back! After a mental health break, she’s returning to racing at La Choralis Fourmies, but with a renewed focus on her true love – cyclocross.
Discover why she chose to step away from road racing, her journey of self-discovery, and what makes cyclocross so captivating for this cycling star.
**In this video:**
* Fem van Empel’s return to racing at La Choralis Fourmies
* Her decision to prioritize cyclocross over road racing
* Insights into her mental health journey and finding balance
* What makes cyclocross so unique and challenging
* Her excitement for the upcoming cyclocross season
**Keywords:** Fem van Empel, cyclocross, La Choralis Fourmies, cycling, mental health, comeback, world champion, Visma-Lease a Bike, women’s cycling
I lost sight of who I was beyond racing. Fem Vanimple is set to race again at L Charales Formemes, but her true passion for cyclacross is driving the comeback of the three-time world champion. When Fem Vanmpemple announced in March that she would be stepping away from competition to prioritize her mental health and overall well-being, she didn’t specify how long the break would last or exactly how she planned to return stronger than before. This pause was as much about healing as it was about reflecting on the best direction for her future in cycling. Now 6 months later, the picture is clearer. Vanmple will make her return to racing on the road this Sunday at laurales form in France. However, the three-time cyclacross world champion has made it clear that cyclacross, the discipline where she proudly wears the rainbow stripes, is where her heart truly lies. Racing on the road is simply a way to regain her competitive edge and rhythm. At just 23 years old, she has decided to step back from the demanding road calendar she had with Visma Lisa Bike for 2023 and 2024, having only participated in Strrad Bianke and Trofeo Alfredo Binda earlier this season before pausing. My passion and enjoyment for road racing just didn’t match what I feel for Cyclacross. Vanmple explained in a statement from her team Vizma Lisa Bike with whom she is contracted through 2027. The moment I made this decision, it felt completely right. I stand firmly behind it. She elaborated on what draws her to Cyclacross. What I love most is the constant variety. No two races are alike. The conditions and challenges are always shifting. that makes it both demanding and beautiful. You have to be adaptable, make quick decisions, and constantly adjust your strategy throughout the race. In Cyclacross, I feel I have more influence over how the race plays out, and that suits me perfectly. This renewed focus on Cyclacross also means Vanmple will have more time to explore life beyond cycling. She revealed that there was a period when she felt lost, saying, “I didn’t really know who I was outside of racing anymore. Through this journey, she has learned to appreciate herself beyond just her race results. Ultimately, I’ve rediscovered myself, and that brings me immense happiness,” she shared. “Looking ahead, Vanmple is filled with excitement. The most important thing is that I’m incredibly eager to get back out there. I’m ready to dive in and do what I love most. But here’s where it gets controversial. Is it wise for a young athlete with such a promising road career to narrow her focus so early? Could this decision limit her potential? Or is it a bold move toward long-term fulfillment and success? What do you think? Share your thoughts below. Do you agree with Vanmple’s choice to prioritize cycllacross or do you believe she should keep her options open across disciplines?