Join three-time cyclocross world champion Fem van Empel as she shares her inspiring journey of taking a mental health break and returning stronger than ever. In this video, Fem opens up about rediscovering her identity beyond racing, why she’s shifting her focus back to cyclocross, and her upcoming return to road racing at La Choralis Fourmies.
Discover how Fem balances the challenges and beauty of cyclocross, why she values the variety and quick decision-making in the sport, and what motivates her to keep pushing forward. Whether you’re a fan of cyclocross, road racing, or mental health awareness in sports, this video offers an honest and uplifting perspective.
Keywords: Fem van Empel, cyclocross world champion, mental health in sports, La Choralis Fourmies, cyclocross comeback, Visma-Lease a Bike, road racing, cycling motivation, athlete mental health, women’s cycling
I found myself questioning my identity beyond the realm of racing shared fem vanmple as she prepares to pin on a race number once again at lerales form. This marks a significant moment for the three-time world champion in cyclacross who is reigniting her competitive spirit after a muchneeded break in March. Sem made the courageous decision to step back from racing prioritizing her mental health and overall well-being. At that time, she didn’t specify how long this hiatus would last or what her future plans would entail. However, she viewed this period as a crucial opportunity to reflect on her journey and strategize her return to the sport she loves. Fast forward 6 months and Fem is ready to make her comeback, starting with a road race in France this Sunday. Yet, her primary focus will be on cyclacross, the discipline where she has earned her prestigious rainbow stripes. Participating in the road race is merely a way for the 23-year-old athlete to regain her competitive rhythm. She has decided to step away from road racing where she had initially committed to a busy schedule with Vismo Lisa Bike for the 2023 and 2024 seasons. After competing in just a couple of early season events, including Strrada Bianke and Tropheo Alfredo Binda, she recognized that her heart lies elsewhere. My passion and enjoyment for road racing just didn’t match what I feel for Cyclacross. Then Emple explained in a statement from her team, Vizma Leisa Bike, with whom she is contracted until the end of 2027. Once I made the decision, it felt completely right. I am fully committed to this choice. Fem elaborated on her love for Cyclacross, saying, “What I cherish most is the endless variety it offers. No two races are alike. The dynamics are always shifting. This aspect makes it both challenging and beautiful. You need to be adaptable, make quick decisions, and stay engaged throughout the race. In Cyclacross, I feel I have more control over the race’s direction, which aligns perfectly with my strengths. By concentrating on Cyclacross, the Dutch athlete who began her racing career at the tender age of 8 will have more time to explore her identity beyond the sport. She candidly admitted, “There was a time when I didn’t really know who I was outside of racing. Through this journey, Fem has learned to appreciate herself more as an individual, separate from her achievements in cycling. Ultimately, I’ve rediscovered who I am, and that brings me immense joy,” she expressed. “What matters most is that I’m filled with excitement,” Vanmple concluded. “I’m ready to dive back in and pursue what I love the most. This story raises an important question. How do athletes balance their identities with their sports? What are your thoughts on the pressures athletes face regarding their self-worth? Share your opinions in the comments.