Cyclo-Cross World Championships gets the green light
The UCI has confirmed that the Cyclo-Cross World Championships in Ostend in Belgium this week-end will go ahead despite concerns about an outbreak of the South African coronavirus variant in the Belgian town. There will be strict directives regarding organisation and behaviour in order to ensure the full safety of riders, media and organisers all of whom will have to undergo PCR testing and show proof of a negative test as part of the races 20-page COVID-19 protocol.
In a statement the UCI said they had agreed to a “reduction of accredited persons and toughening of sanitary regulations”. The decision followed talks with the Flemish Ministry of Sport.The Mayor of Ostend has urged people to stay away from the site. The police are to ensure that, on the beach, the dike and the road, no walkers, cyclists and cars are allowed in the vicinity of the course.
“I would like to thank the spirit of cooperation demonstrated by all the players, organisers and competent authorities, who have made it possible to safeguard the Championships for the benefit of the athletes, viewers, partners, and all fans of our sport despite the current very challenging circumstances,” said UCI president David Lappartient.
The men’s race has been highly anticipated with Mathieu van der Poel and Wout van Aert set to renew their rivalry in the elite men’s race on the biggest stage in cyclo-cross on Sunday. Ceylin Del Carmen Alvarado of the Netherlands will try to defend her title in the elite women’s race on Saturday. The U23 men’s race will be held on Saturday and the women’s U23 on Sunday.
