Cycling Pulse

Eddy Merckx, a name synonymous with cycling greatness, has made headlines recently not just for his legendary status but also due to health-related incidents that have temporarily sidelined him. Merckx, now 78 years old, recently underwent emergency intestinal surgery, a reminder of the health challenges that can affect even the most celebrated athletes. This article delves into his recent health scare, his illustrious cycling career, and the broader implications for athlete health and longevity. On March 26, 2024, Merckx found himself in the operating room after being diagnosed with a bowel obstruction. The emergency surgery required the removal of a significant portion of his intestine, a procedure that underscores the critical...

The rise of super teams in cycling has become a defining feature of the sport, particularly with notable squads like UAE Team Emirates and INEOS Grenadiers leading the charge. These teams have not only showcased exceptional talent but have also brought to light the stark financial disparities that exist within professional cycling. As budgets continue to swell, the concentration of talent becomes increasingly pronounced, resulting in a significant gap between the richest and poorest teams. UAE Team Emirates stands at the forefront of this trend, boasting an estimated budget of $60 million for 2024. This financial muscle enables them to attract top-tier riders and staff, creating a competitive edge that is difficult for less affluent...

Cycling UK, the national cycling charity, has launched a new five-year strategy aimed at enhancing the wellbeing, health, and environmental benefits of cycling across the UK. This comprehensive approach outlines several strategic objectives that not only promote cycling as a desirable activity but also seek to reshape public perceptions, increase participation among diverse groups, and improve infrastructure to support safe cycling. One of the central goals of the strategy is to improve public perceptions of cycling. This initiative recognizes that many people may not cycle themselves, yet they can appreciate the positive impact cycling can have on their communities. Cycling UK has produced a film that emphasizes these community...

Preliminary estimates for 2023 paint a grim picture for cycling safety in the United States, with 1,149 bicyclists losing their lives in traffic crashes. This figure marks the highest number ever recorded, reflecting an unsettling trend that demands immediate attention and action. The increase in fatalities from 2022, where 1,105 cyclists were killed, underscores a concerning 4% rise, compounding the urgency for enhanced safety measures and infrastructure investments. To understand this crisis, it is essential to look at the historical context. In the past few years, cycling deaths have spiked significantly; the 1,105 deaths in 2022 represented a staggering 13% increase from the 935 deaths reported in 2021. The pattern reveals a...

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...