"It's not about luxury": Van der Poel defends partnership with private jet company
TOUR
· 08.07.2025
Mathieu van der Poel is at the centre of a controversy after announcing a partnership with the private jet company Flying Group. The Dutch professional cyclist is facing a wave of criticism, mainly centred on the environmental impact of private flights. Van der Poel announced the collaboration on his Instagram profile just a few hours before the start of the Tour de France 2025. Unlike his usual posts, this announcement sparked a flood of negative reactions. "I am happy to announce that I am an ambassador for Flying Group and proud to represent a company that is taking the world of private aviation to a new level," van der Poel wrote in his original post. The reactions were not long in coming. Almost 2000 comments, mostly critical, flooded the post, pointing out the contradiction between the use of private jets and the growing commitment of the sports world - especially cycling - to sustainability.
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Mathieu van der Poel defends decision
In view of the wave of criticism, van der Poel felt compelled to defend his decision and explain the background. In a more detailed statement in the same article, he explained the reasons for the partnership. "I have seen some reactions and want to be transparent about my collaboration with Flying Group as a sustainable partner. I understand the environmental concerns and respect all opinions," explained van der Poel. He made it clear that for him, the way he travelled was of great importance to his sport and his career. "I work very hard every day to perform at the highest level and that involves making choices that protect my time, my physical health and my mental health. Flying relaxed, with less stress helps me stay focussed and healthy," he explained. "This partnership is not about luxury, it's about performance, recovery and the kind of support that helps me give 100 per cent every time. I always try to make responsible decisions where I can, but I'm also very clear about my goals," the Dutch cycling star continued.
Focus on environmental impact
The criticism of van der Poel's decision is backed up by data showing the significant environmental impact of private flights. In 2023, an average private jet flight emitted around 3.6 tonnes of CO2 - almost as much as the annual carbon footprint of an average citizen in many European countries. Per kilometre and passenger, private jets emit up to 4559 percent more emissions than a commercial flight. The question remains as to how such partnerships can be reconciled with cycling's increasing efforts towards sustainability. The controversy surrounding van der Poel's partnership with Flying Group highlights the complex relationship between elite sport, performance optimisation and environmental responsibility. As athletes look for ways to maximise their performance, they are increasingly confronted with the expectation to also act as role models in terms of sustainability.
