Photo via Cyclingnews

'Getting back to this point has been a journey of its own' - Fem van Empel one spot off podium at Berencross on return to racing

Dutch cyclo-cross star **Fem van Empel** returned to competition after a 50-week hiatus, finishing fourth at the C2 Berencross in Meulebeke. The three-time world champion, now racing for Specialized TMRW under a new contract with FDJ United-Suez, reflected on her extended break, emphasizing personal growth and rediscovered joy in the sport.

Van Empel, who parted ways with Visma-Lease a Bike last year, admitted her time away was necessary to regain her passion, though she acknowledged the rust in her early return. Meanwhile, Luxembourg’s **Marie Schreiber** extended her early-season dominance with a third victory in four starts, while Dutch rivals **Anik van Alpen** and **Lucinda Brand** secured second and third, respectively.

Van Empel’s teammate **Célia Gery**—who earned U23 bronze at last year’s world championships—has yet to debut for the squad this season, along with **Amandine Muller**, who placed fifth in the same event as a French junior.

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