Cyclo-cross races unfold on closed-loop courses, typically 1 to 3 kilometres long, combining grass, dirt, sand, and sometimes snow or ice. These intense 30-minute to one-hour sprints are not just about pedalling hard; they demand sharp bike handling, quick dismounts, and a knack for tackling obstacles like tree roots, barriers, and steep climbs – all while shouldering your bike.
And the weather? It’s not just a backdrop – it’s an integral part of the drama. Held during autumn and winter, CX races embrace the elements: rain-soaked mud, bone-chilling wind, and slippery terrain that leaves riders caked in grit and glory.
A new chapter in women’s cyclo-cross
While cyclo-cross has long been a playground for daring riders, recent developments are making the sport even more inclusive and dynamic – especially for women. One of the most significant milestones came last season with the introduction of a dedicated Women’s Under 23 (WU) category in the UCI Cyclo-cross World Championships.
This move was the result of persistent advocacy by athletes like British cyclo-cross star Helen Wyman who saw the need for a better developmental pathway for young female riders. “When a 16-year-old woman has to race the likes of Katie Compton, Marianne Vos, and Sanne Cant week in and week out, it becomes very demoralising,” Wyman explained. The WU category now offers athletes aged 17 to 22 the chance to compete against their peers, creating a more level playing field while still offering prize money and UCI points equal to their male counterparts.
The WU category has already seen success at the national and continental levels, and its inclusion in the World Championships is a huge step forward. With the potential for this category to expand to more World Cup races in the future, the UCI is setting the stage for a new generation of stars to rise. This focus on nurturing young talent mirrors similar successes in mountain biking where introducing dedicated youth categories has led to a surge of neo-pros making waves at the elite level.
With promising names like Zoe Bäckstedt – already a Junior World Champion – poised to make their mark in the WU category, it’s clear this initiative is more than just a gesture; it’s a commitment to fostering long-term growth and inclusivity in the sport.©
A history rooted in ingenuity
Cyclo-cross traces its origins back to early 20th-century Tour de France riders who invented the sport as a way to stay fit in the off-season. With few paved roads, they took to the countryside, cutting through fields, climbing fences, and forging new paths over rugged terrain.
Since those scrappy beginnings, cyclo-cross has evolved into a discipline with a devoted following, especially in northern Europe. Belgium and the Netherlands are its heartlands, hosting iconic events like the UCI Cyclo-cross World Cup and the Superprestige series. Meanwhile, the sport has gained momentum in the United States, with national championships and regional circuits drawing passionate competitors and fans.
Women’s cyclo-cross has been on an upward trajectory in recent years, thanks to growing parity in race schedules, prize money, and media coverage. The field is more competitive than ever, blending seasoned champions with promising newcomers.
The sport’s popularity has extended beyond traditional cyclo-cross powerhouses like the Netherlands and Belgium. Countries like the USA, Italy, and the UK are producing talented riders who are challenging the dominance of the Dutch and Belgian squads. This internationalisation, combined with the inclusion of youth categories in six World Cup rounds, ensures the pipeline of talent remains robust.
The 2024-2025 World Cup
The 2024-2025 UCI Cyclo-cross World Cup presents 12 rounds spanning six countries and the introduction of a new venue in Oristano, Sardinia. Kicking off on November 24, in Antwerp, Belgium — the upcoming months promise intense competition and a chance for upcoming stars to make a name for themselves.
Antwerp will set the tone for the season with its iconic sand sections and high-speed demands. Riders will also return to established favourites like Hoogerheide and Namur where weather conditions and technical features often dictate the outcome.
One of the season’s highlights will be the expansion of youth categories. By including Men’s Under 23, Men’s Junior, and Women’s Junior races in select rounds, the World Cup fosters the development of future stars and adds a new layer of excitement for fans.
2024-2025 UCI Cyclo-cross World Cup calendar:
- Round 1: Sunday 24 November 2024, in Antwerp (Belgium)
- Round 2: Sunday 1 December 2024, in Dublin (Ireland)
- Round 3: Sunday 8 December 2024, Oristano – Sardinia (Italy)
- Round 4: Sunday 15 December 2024, in Namur (Belgium)
- Round 5: Saturday 21 December 2024, in Hulst (Netherlands)
- Round 6: Sunday 22 December 2024, in Zonhoven (Belgium)*
- Round 7: Thursday 26 December 2024, in Gavere (Belgium)
- Round 8: Sunday 29 December 2024, Besançon (France)*
- Round 9: Sunday 5 January 2025, in Dendermonde (Belgium)
- Round 10: Sunday 19 January 2025, in Benidorm – Costa Blanca (Spain)
- Round 11: Saturday 25 January 2025, Maasmechelen (Belgium)
- Round 12: Sunday 26 January 2025, Hoogerheide – Noord-Brabant (Netherlands)
Riders to watch
The women’s field is stacked with talent, featuring a mix of established champions and rising stars. Here are the key riders to keep an eye on as the Cyclo-cross World Cup unfolds:
Fem van Empel
The reigning Cyclo-cross World Champion has proven herself as a powerhouse. With incredible technical skills and the ability to thrive in all conditions, she starts the season as the rider to beat. Van Empel’s consistency and tactical acumen make her a favourite for the overall World Cup title.
Ceylin del Carmen Alvarado
A former World Champion, Alvarado combines finesse and experience to deliver strong results. She’s especially dangerous on courses that require sharp cornering and short bursts of power.
Lucinda Brand
Brand’s all-rounder capabilities and tactical smarts make her a perennial contender. With a background in road racing and cyclo-cross, she adapts quickly to varying conditions and thrives in muddy, endurance-heavy races.
Clara Honsinger
Honsinger, the top American in the field, is building a reputation as a mud specialist. Her resilience and ability to power through difficult terrain make her a rider to watch, particularly in courses where conditions are unpredictable.
Inge Van Der Heijden
A rising star from the Netherlands, Van Der Heijden has shown she can compete with the best. With steady improvements each season, she’s likely to play a significant role in the World Cup.
Denise Betsema
One of the strongest riders on sand-heavy courses, Betsema is known for her powerful starts and ability to maintain high speed on flat, fast terrain. She’ll be a major factor in races like Antwerp.
Sara Casasola
Representing Italy, Casasola is part of a growing wave of international riders making their mark. Her technical skills and steady progression in recent years could lead to breakout performances.
Zoe Bäckstedt
Among the youngest riders on this list, Bäckstedt is already a force to be reckoned with. The British sensation brings raw talent and fearless racing to the field, making her an exciting wildcard for podiums.
The impact of youth categories
This season’s inclusion of youth races highlights the importance of nurturing future talent. With opportunities for junior and U23 riders to compete on the World Cup stage, these races are not only entertaining but also crucial for development.
For fans, the youth categories offer a glimpse of tomorrow’s stars. Riders like Zoe Bäckstedt have already proven that age is no barrier to success. This focus on youth ensures the longevity of cyclo-cross as a sport, with a steady influx of skilled athletes entering the elite ranks.
