UCI Cyclo-cross Worlds To Go Ahead With Stricter Covid Regulations

We were just going to mention this in the race preview, but even Cycling Weekly have covered it now. Plus it’s nice to have a “race not canceled” update to counteract the endless stream of postponements.

So: the UCI has confirmed that the 2021 UCI Cyclo-cross World Championships, scheduled for 30 and 31 January and taking place in Ostend (Belgium), remains on the race calendar “following the introduction of additional measures.” Those measures are a reduction of the number of accredited persons and “toughening of sanitary regulations.” That last one sounds like they’re making people flush the toilet after they use it or something. They say it’ll ensure a safe event in an extremely challenging context.

The UCI, Belgian Cycling, City of Oostende, and Flemish Minister of Sports Ben Weyts all held talks. Thankfully, unlike all the other times these types of groups report on having a discussion, Oostende will be continue to be able to host both days of Worlds competition.

The Junior event was canceled, but Under 23 and Elite riders will be in competition for the rainbow jersey. The course looks super cool too, with sand and grass. Like the GP Gloucester. Sigh.