Cycling Pulse

Mathieu van der Poel has officially announced his cyclocross schedule for the 2024-2025 season, generating considerable excitement among cycling enthusiasts. With a total of 11 races lined up, Van der Poel will be looking to defend his title as he aims for a historic seventh World Championship victory, a feat that would tie him with cycling legend Erik de Vlaeminck. The season kicks off for Van der Poel on December 22, 2024, at the UCI World Cup in Zonhoven. This event will mark his first foray into competitive cyclocross this winter. Just a day later, he will face off against his long-standing rival Wout van Aert at the Superprestige event in Mol, setting the stage for a thrilling rivalry that will be closely followed throughout the...

The need for safe, off-road cycling routes and segregated cycle lanes in rural areas is increasingly recognized as a pressing concern, particularly in regions like Buckinghamshire. Recent debates have underscored that rural roads often pose higher risks for cyclists due to faster-moving traffic and inadequate infrastructure. The challenge is not just about safety; it’s about fostering a culture of cycling that encourages active travel and healthier lifestyles. Buckinghamshire Council is taking significant steps to address these concerns through its Local Cycling and Walking Infrastructure Plan (LCWIP). This comprehensive initiative aims not only to improve the existing network for cycling, walking, and wheeling but also to create new...

Primož Roglič is poised to embark on a highly ambitious season in 2025 with Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe, as he sets his sights on conquering both the Giro d'Italia and the Tour de France. This dual focus is a testament to his perseverance and determination to claim the elusive Tour title that has so far escaped him, despite a career filled with significant accolades including multiple Grand Tour victories. The announcement of Roglič’s plans came during the team's training camp in Mallorca in December 2024. Here, he confirmed his intention to pursue the general classification in the Giro d'Italia, where he previously triumphed in 2023, before leading his team into the Tour de France. This strategy not only highlights Roglič's confidence but...

Thibau Nys, the 21-year-old Belgian prodigy, has etched his name in cyclocross history by clinching his first elite European championship title in a nail-biting contest held on November 3, 2024, in Pontevedra, Spain. Nys emerged victorious in front of a passionate crowd, overcoming home favorite Felipe Orts in a race that showcased not only the physical demands of cyclocross but also the strategic intricacies that define the sport. The race unfolded under the warm sun of Galicia, with temperatures soaring to 24°C (75°F) on a course characterized by its speed and technical challenges. As the riders navigated the twists and turns, a decisive lead group formed on the seventh lap. Nys, alongside Orts, and fellow competitors Eli Iserbyt...

Tom Pidcock, the British double Olympic mountain bike champion, has taken a significant step in his cycling career by signing a three-year deal with the Swiss Pro Continental team Q36.5 Pro Cycling. This announcement, made on December 6, 2024, marks a pivotal moment for Pidcock, who recently reached an agreement with INEOS Grenadiers to terminate his contract early, which originally ran until the end of 2027. Speculation surrounding Pidcock's future with INEOS had been rife for months, with many within the cycling community questioning whether he would remain with the team. His attendance at INEOS's training camp in November suggested he might stay, but subsequent events, including his presence at Rouleur Live and absence from a second...

Demi Vollering, an elite cyclist from the Netherlands, has had a season filled with both physical challenges and interpersonal conflicts that have marked a significant chapter in her competitive career. Her reflections offer a profound insight into the world of professional cycling, where resilience and relationships are tested at every turn. One of the most harrowing moments of Vollering’s season occurred during Stage 5 of the Tour de France Femmes, where she suffered a tailbone fracture in a crash. Initially, the severity of her injury was masked by her shock and adrenaline; she believed she had broken her hip. The incident was compounded by the distressing situation of bleeding due to wet shorts, which stemmed from spontaneous...

MAAP has unveiled the Alt_Road Cargo Bib 2.0, a significant evolution in their off-road cycling apparel line. Designed with the adventurous cyclist in mind, this bib short combines advanced materials and thoughtful design elements to enhance comfort and functionality on challenging rides. One of the standout features of the Alt_Road Cargo Bib 2.0 is its updated cut and fit. The ergonomic design aims to accommodate the unique demands of off-road cycling, where comfort can make or break a ride. With an emphasis on reducing chafing and discomfort, this bib is crafted to support cyclists during lengthy excursions, whether they are tackling a rugged mountain trail or embarking on a multi-day bikepacking journey. The fabric selection...

Steve Cummings, the former Director of Racing at Ineos Grenadiers, has confirmed his departure from the team, bringing an end to months of speculation regarding his future. His announcement, made on November 6, 2024, via a statement on LinkedIn, marks a significant transition not only for Cummings but also for the team as it navigates a broader shake-up in its management structure. Cummings had been noticeably absent from major races since June 2024, with the Critérium du Dauphiné being his last event with the team. Despite Ineos Grenadiers maintaining that he was working remotely in preparation for the upcoming season, his lack of presence during crucial competitions, including the Tour de France and Giro d'Italia, led to growing...

Ilkhan Dostiyev, a promising 22-year-old cyclist from Kazakhstan, has recently found himself at the center of a doping scandal after testing positive for the blood booster drug CERA (Continuous Erythropoietin Receptor Activator). This incident occurred during an out-of-competition doping control on July 30, 2024, and was confirmed by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) on September 9. The repercussions for Dostiyev have been swift and severe, casting a shadow over his burgeoning career. The implications of this positive test are far-reaching. Dostiyev's admission of guilt led to an immediate suspension from racing and the termination of his contract with the Astana Qazaqstan Development Team. This team, known for nurturing talent...

The cycling world is buzzing with excitement as Remco Evenepoel continues to solidify his status as a premier athlete in the sport, especially following his outstanding performance at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where he clinched two gold medals. This historic achievement has not only elevated his profile but also drawn attention from rival teams eager to capitalize on his success. However, Evenepoel's decision to remain with Soudal Quick-Step despite tempting financial offers, notably from Red Bull-Bora Hansgrohe, speaks volumes about his loyalty and commitment to the team. Patrick Lefevere, the manager of Soudal Quick-Step, has been vocal in his praise for Evenepoel. He highlights the rider's understanding of the team's financial...

Claire Hanna, the leader of the Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP) in Northern Ireland, has recently made headlines by revealing a stark reality: she experiences more harassment as a cyclist than in her political role. This candid admission brings to light a pressing issue that cyclists face globally—harassment on the roads. It highlights the urgent need for enhanced safety measures and a cultural shift towards greater respect for all road users. In an interview with the Irish News, Hanna emphasized the frequency of abuse she encounters while cycling, stating that it is a weekly occurrence. This revelation not only personalizes the issue but also serves as a wake-up call for society regarding the dangers cyclists face daily...

Canyon-SRAM Generation has recently unveiled its new roster for the 2025 season, marking an exciting chapter for the team as it seeks to build on its successes and harness fresh talent. This announcement not only includes contract extensions for key riders but also introduces new signings that promise to enhance the team's competitive edge in upcoming challenges. Among the notable contract extensions is Rwandan road champion Diane Ingabire, who has been a pivotal member of Canyon-SRAM for the past two seasons. Ingabire expressed her gratitude for the support and development opportunities provided by the team, emphasizing her commitment to fostering a strong team spirit and guiding younger riders. Her experience will be invaluable...

The cancellation of the recent cyclo-cross event in Sardinia, Italy, due to severe weather conditions has sent shockwaves through the competitive cycling community. This decision, made in the interest of safety for riders, staff, and spectators alike, has nonetheless led to considerable financial repercussions for those involved. The event was set to be the third round of the prestigious UCI Cyclo-cross World Cup, and the abrupt cancellation has left many riders grappling with unexpected financial strain. Riders invest heavily in their participation in events like these, often spending thousands of euros on travel, accommodation, and equipment. For many, the costs associated with participating in a World Cup event can reach or exceed...