Imagine a cycling race that’s only four years old but has already captured the attention of the world’s top riders. That’s the Clásica Jaén Paraiso Interior, a Spanish one-day race that’s quickly becoming a must-watch event in the early-season calendar. While Tadej Pogacar has already claimed victory here, it’s Mathieu van der Poel who’s now the dream—a rider whose presence could elevate this race to new heights. But here’s where it gets intriguing: how does a relatively young race with a 1.1 ranking convince a cycling legend like Van der Poel to join its gravel-filled adventure?
This Monday, February 16th, the peloton will tackle the Clásica Jaén Paraiso Interior, a race that’s carved its niche with challenging gravel sectors. These sections aren’t just a test of skill—they’re a unique early-season challenge that riders use as a serious goal or as preparation for races like Strade Bianche. Nestled among other Spanish events, this race has become a standout, attracting big names like Tom Pidcock this year. But the organizers have their eyes on an even bigger prize: Mathieu van der Poel, the cyclocross World Champion and gravel racing icon.
The race’s short but impactful history includes wins by Alexey Lutsenko in 2022 and Tadej Pogacar in 2023, who put the event in the global cycling spotlight. Oier Lazkano’s 2024 victory, though now overshadowed by his UCI suspension, and Michal Kwiatkowski’s comeback win in 2023, further cemented its reputation. Yet, despite Pogacar’s stunning solo performance, the race is unlikely to see him again soon. Why? Because the two-time Tour de France winner is scaling back his racing schedule to spend more time at home, as race director Pascual Momparler revealed in an interview with Marca. And this is the part most people miss: even if Pogacar were to start his season earlier, the UAE Tour—his team’s home race—would likely take priority.
But let’s talk about the real dream: Mathieu van der Poel. Momparler admits that landing the Dutchman is his ultimate goal, but it won’t be easy. Top riders like Van der Poel are incredibly selective with their calendars, handpicking races to peak at the right moments. For Pogacar, it’s the spring classics; for Jonas Vingegaard, it’s the Giro d’Italia and Tour de France. This selectivity means race organizers can’t rely on riders simply seeking race rhythm, as they once did. So, how does Momparler plan to convince Van der Poel? By making him an offer he can’t refuse—just as they did with Pidcock this year.
Here’s the controversial part: Is a 1.1-ranked race like Clásica Jaén Paraiso Interior truly capable of attracting a rider of Van der Poel’s caliber? While the ranking isn’t everything, it does play a role in the race’s reputation. Momparler believes in the power of clear, extended communication with riders and their teams, but even he admits it’s a long shot. Yet, he’s willing to make big moves, possibly as early as 2027, to bring Van der Poel to the start line. After all, the Dutchman’s success in gravel and cyclocross makes him a perfect fit for this race’s demanding terrain.
So, what do you think? Can a race like this truly land a superstar like Mathieu van der Poel? Or is it aiming too high? Let’s discuss in the comments—because this is one cycling story that’s far from over.
