BREAKING News: Mathieu Van Der Poel Donates Entire Bonus and Sponsorship Earnings to Homeless Shelter In Kapellen, Belgium to Help Fund 150 Units Housing with 300 Shelter Beds… “I’ve seen the effects of homelessness firsthand growing up, and I knew if I ever had the means, I’d give back in a meaningful way,” George Kittle said in a press conference. “No one deserves to sleep on a sidewalk.”….

BREAKING News: Mathieu Van Der Poel Donates Entire Bonus and Sponsorship Earnings to Homeless Shelter In Kapellen, Belgium to Help Fund 150 Units Housing with 300 Shelter Beds… “I’ve seen the effects of homelessness firsthand growing up, and I knew if I ever had the means, I’d give back in a meaningful way,” George Kittle said in a press conference. “No one deserves to sleep on a sidewalk.”….

 

 

 

BREAKING News: Mathieu van der Poel Donates Entire Bonus and Sponsorship Earnings to Build Homeless Shelter in Kapellen, Belgium

Kapellen, Belgium – July 26, 2025

In a gesture that transcends the world of competitive cycling, Mathieu van der Poel, one of the sport’s most electrifying and successful athletes, has announced the donation of his entire season bonus and all sponsorship earnings to fund a large-scale homeless shelter project in his hometown of Kapellen, Belgium.

The donation—estimated to be worth several million euros—will be used to construct 150 housing units and 300 shelter beds for people experiencing homelessness across the Antwerp region. The project is expected to break ground later this year, with completion aimed for early 2027.

In an emotional press conference held in the heart of Kapellen, van der Poel reflected on his personal experiences growing up and why this initiative hits so close to home.

“I’ve seen the effects of homelessness firsthand growing up,” he said. “I’ve seen people lose everything, sleep in the cold, and feel invisible. I told myself then that if I ever had the means, I’d give back in a meaningful way.”

While van der Poel has become a global icon in cycling—winning multiple Tour de France stages, World Championships, and Monument Classics—he has consistently remained grounded and connected to his roots in Belgium. This donation is just the latest in a series of philanthropic efforts he’s been quietly undertaking.

A Lifeline for the Community

The shelter will be named “The Haven of Hope”, and will not just offer beds, but also include counseling services, vocational training, mental health support, and transitional housing programs. Local officials hailed the move as a game-changer in tackling one of the region’s most pressing social issues.

Mayor Dirk Van Gils of Kapellen called it “the most significant private contribution to the fight against homelessness in Belgian history.”

“This is more than a donation,” Van Gils said. “It’s an investment in dignity, stability, and second chances. Mathieu has given a voice to those often ignored by society.”

Global Applause

The cycling world and broader sports community quickly responded with admiration. Fellow riders, commentators, and even athletes from other disciplines took to social media to praise van der Poel’s generosity.

Former rival Wout van Aert tweeted, “What a human. Proud to share a sport with someone who gives back like this. Respect, Mathieu.”
Tour de France organizers called the move “heroic and humbling.”

Cycling Star, Humanitarian Heart

At just 30, van der Poel has already secured a legacy as one of cycling’s modern greats, known for his fearless riding, versatility across disciplines, and unforgettable finishes. But this moment, many argue, could become one of the most enduring chapters in his legacy—not for what he did on the bike, but for what he chose to do off of it.

Sports commentator Paul Sherwen Jr. said on Eurosport, “We’ve cheered for his climbs, his sprints, his solos. But this? This deserves a standing ovation from the entire world.”

Van der Poel made it clear, however, that he does not seek attention or applause.

“This isn’t about me. It’s about doing what’s right. If I can use my success to make life better for someone else, that’s all the reward I need.”

Looking Ahead

Construction on The Haven of Hope will be jointly managed by Habitat Belgium, Vlaamse Woonraad, and the Van der Poel Foundation, which was quietly registered last year to support social initiatives across Europe.

The facility is expected to serve over 5,000 individuals annually, with special focus on families, veterans, and those battling mental health and addiction issues.

As van der Poel gears up for the final stages of his 2025 season, including the Vuelta a España and UCI Road World Championships, fans around the globe will be watching not just for his finishes, but with newfound admiration for the man behind the helmet.

One local resident perhaps said it best:

“He gave us pride with his wins. Now, he’s giving people a future. That’s the real victory.”