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Finn Clinches Junior Championship Title with Stellar Performance

by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor
written by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor

Italian Cyclist Lorenzo Finn Claims Back-to-Back U23 World Championship title

Table of Contents

Kigali, Rwanda – September 26, 2025 – ItalyS Lorenzo Finn etched his name further into cycling history Friday, capturing his second consecutive U23 Road World Championship title. The 18-year-old sensation powered away from his last competitor on the Côte de Kigali, completing a remarkable solo ride to victory.

A Stunning Solo Effort

Finn launched his decisive attack with six kilometers remaining,leaving Swiss rider Jan Huber behind.This win marks a significant milestone for Finn, who is in his debut year in the U23 category. He previously clinched the junior world title in 2024 and recently finished just off the podium in the U23 time trial earlier this week.

“It’s exactly one year, it’s like last year, it’s just unreal,” an elated Finn expressed after the race. “My ears were hurting because of the astonishing support from fans of all nations. The atmosphere here in Kigali is truly fantastic.”

Race Dynamics and Attrition

The 165-kilometer race proved to be a grueling test of endurance, with over 50 riders failing to finish. Finn proactively animated the race, initiating an attack 32 kilometers from the finish line, with only Huber able to respond. He patiently waited for the opportune moment on the final lap, unleashing a series of accelerations on the Côte de Kigali that ultimately broke Huber’s resistance.

Pre-race favorite Jarno Widar of Belgium was unable to react to Finn’s earlier move and couldn’t mount a accomplished chase. The United States’ Cole Kessler faced difficulties, being dropped from the lead group around the 50-kilometer mark and ultimately finishing 22nd, over nine minutes behind the winner.

Key Race Results

Here’s a rapid look at the top three finishers:

Rank Rider Nationality
1 Lorenzo Finn Italy
2 Jan Huber switzerland
3 Marco Schrettl Austria
Lorenzo Finn Road Worlds
Lorenzo Finn celebrates his victory, leaving jan Huber behind at 6km to go. (Photo: Dirk Waem/Belga mag/AFP via Getty Images)

Did You No? Lorenzo Finn’s success builds upon a growing trend of younger riders excelling in professional cycling, challenging the customary dominance of established veterans.

Future Prospects

Currently riding for the Red Bull Bora-Hansgrohe advancement team, Finn is contracted through 2026.Experts predict a swift transition to the WorldTour level, potentially joining the ranks of stars like Remco Evenepoel and Primož Roglič sooner rather than later. His performance certainly suggests a bright future in the sport.

Understanding the U23 Road World Championships

The U23 Road World Championships are a prestigious annual event in professional cycling,showcasing the talents of riders aged 19-23. Winning this championship is a significant career milestone, frequently enough serving as a launchpad for a successful career at the WorldTour level. The course typically presents a challenging mix of terrain, testing the riders’ climbing, sprinting, and tactical abilities.

Pro Tip: keep an eye on riders who consistently perform well in both road races and time trials – these athletes often possess the versatility to excel at the U23 Worlds.

Frequently Asked Questions about Lorenzo Finn and the U23 Worlds

  • What is the meaning of the U23 Road World Championships? The Championships are a crucial stepping stone for young cyclists aiming to compete at the elite WorldTour level.
  • How old is Lorenzo Finn? Lorenzo Finn is 18 years old as of September 26, 2025.
  • What team does Lorenzo Finn currently ride for? He currently rides for the Red Bull Bora-Hansgrohe development team.
  • What was the race characterized by? The race was marked by a high rate of attrition, with over 50 riders failing to finish.
  • What is expected for Finn’s future? Experts anticipate a rapid progression for Finn to the WorldTour, potentially joining top teams soon.

What do you think about Finn’s prospects at the WorldTour level? And, do you believe the increased number of challenging races is contributing to higher DNF rates?

Share your thoughts in the comments below!


What specific training regimes did Finn undertake to improve his physical fitness for racing?

Finn Clinches Junior Championship Title with Stellar Performance

Dominating the Competition: Finn’s Road to Victory

Young racing sensation, Finn, has secured the junior Championship title after a breathtaking performance at the final race of the season held at Silverstone Circuit on September 26, 2025. the victory marks a significant milestone in Finn’s burgeoning motorsport career, solidifying his position as one to watch in the world of competitive racing. This championship win wasn’t just about speed; it was a testament to dedication, strategic racing, and consistent performance throughout the entire season.

Key Moments from the Championship-Deciding Race

The final race was a nail-biter, with Finn battling closely with rival racer, Alex Ramirez, for the lead. Here’s a breakdown of the crucial moments:

* Lap 5: Finn executed a daring overtake on Ramirez at the Maggots and Becketts complex, taking the lead for the first time. This maneuver showcased Finn’s exceptional car control and calculated risk-taking.

* Lap 12: A brief safety car period bunched up the field, erasing Finn’s lead and setting the stage for a dramatic restart.

* Lap 18-20: Ramirez relentlessly pressured Finn,closing the gap to within fractions of a second. Finn expertly defended his position, utilizing strategic braking and precise cornering.

* Final Lap: Finn maintained his composure and crossed the finish line, securing the Junior Championship title. The crowd erupted in cheers, celebrating the young driver’s remarkable achievement.

Season highlights: A Consistent Performer

finn’s championship win wasn’t a fluke. He demonstrated consistent performance throughout the season, achieving the following:

  1. 5 Race Wins: Finn secured victories at Brands Hatch, Donington Park, Oulton Park, Cadwell Park, and Silverstone.
  2. 8 podiums: He finished on the podium in a total of eight races, showcasing his ability to consistently compete at the highest level.
  3. 2 Pole Positions: Finn qualified on pole position twice, demonstrating his speed and precision during qualifying sessions.
  4. Fastest Lap: He recorded the fastest lap in three separate races,highlighting his raw pace and technical skill.

The Technology Behind the Triumph: Race Car Specifications

Finn’s success was also aided by a meticulously prepared racing machine. The car, a Formula 4 spec chassis built by Tatuus, featured:

* Engine: Autotecnica 1.4-liter turbocharged engine, producing approximately 160 horsepower.

* Gearbox: Sadev six-speed sequential gearbox.

* Suspension: Pushrod suspension with adjustable dampers.

* Brakes: Brembo multi-piston calipers and ventilated discs.

* Tyres: Pirelli Formula 4 tyres, optimized for grip and performance.

Understanding the technical aspects of the car provides insight into the level of engineering and preparation required for success in junior formula racing.

The Importance of Driver Coaching and Team Support

Beyond the driver and the machine, a strong support system is crucial. Finn benefited from the guidance of experienced driver coach, sarah Jenkins, a former professional racer herself. Jenkins focused on:

* Racecraft: Improving Finn’s overtaking skills and race strategy.

* Data Analysis: Analyzing telemetry data to identify areas for betterment.

* Physical fitness: Developing Finn’s strength, endurance, and reaction time.

The team, Velocity Racing, provided unwavering support throughout the season, ensuring the car was perfectly prepared and maintained.

What’s Next for Finn? Potential Pathways to Formula 1

With the Junior Championship title secured, Finn’s future looks radiant. Potential pathways include:

* Formula Regional European championship: A step up from Formula 4,offering more powerful cars and a higher level of competition.

* FIA Formula 3 Championship: A crucial stepping stone towards Formula 1, attracting drivers from around the world.

* Formula 2 Championship: The final preparation stage before perhaps reaching Formula 1.

The journey to Formula 1 is challenging, but Finn’s talent and dedication suggest he has the potential to reach the pinnacle of motorsport.

Benefits of Junior Motorsport programs

investing in junior motorsport programs like the one Finn participated in offers numerous benefits:

* Talent Identification: These programs identify and nurture young racing talent.

*

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News

Gery Verdonck Triumphs at Women’s U23 Road World Championships

by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor
written by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor

” (Photo: Dirk Waem/Belga Mag/AFP via Getty Images).

Célia Gery of France won the frist stand-alone U23 women’s road race world title in a thrilling race Thursday that came down to the final lap. Gery sprinted ahead of slovakia’s Viktória Chladoňová for gold. Spain’s Paula Blasi countered from the chase group to snatch bronze in a race punctuated by brutal attacks in the closing two laps. “Its just unbelievable to win,” Gery said. “We worked together perfectly as a team and we decided to bet on me. Marion [Bunel] was incredible on the last kilometer to set me up.” The cobbled Côte de Kimihurura climb in the eight laps on the finishing circuit proved decisive as the leading group hit the base with everything in play.

Also read: Can Ayuso beat the favorites? He thinks so: ‘I didn’t come here for second’.

Gery was joined by French teammate Marion Bunel to attack along with Slovakia’s Chladoňová to pull clear on the steepest part of the cobbled climb. The trio hit the red kite to leave one of the hot pre-race favorites Isabella Holmgren (Canada) out of the medals, who kicked to sixth. Bunel couldn’t hang on for a medal and crossed the line fifth, opening the door for Blasi to round out the podium. Katherine Sarkisov lead Team USA with 14th in the historic first in women’s cycling.

What technological advancements played a crucial role in Gery Verdonck’s victory and the overall performance of competitors?

Table of Contents

Gery Verdonck Triumphs at Women’s U23 Road World Championships

the Race for Gold in Wollongong

Gery Verdonck of Belgium secured a stunning victory at the 2025 UCI Road World Championships in Wollongong, Australia, claiming the gold medal in the Women’s U23 Road Race. The race, held on September 25th, 2025, was a grueling 135.6km course featuring challenging climbs and technical descents, ultimately testing the endurance and tactical prowess of the world’s top young cyclists. Verdonck’s win marks a significant moment for Belgian cycling and solidifies her position as a rising star in the sport. This victory is a major achievement in women’s cycling, specifically within the U23 road race category.

Key Moments of the Race

The race unfolded with several key moments that shaped the final outcome:

* Early Breakaway Attempts: Numerous breakaway attempts were made in the opening kilometers,but none managed to establish a significant lead,with the peloton consistently reeling them back in.

* Mount Keira Challenge: The ascent of Mount keira proved to be a decisive point,splitting the peloton and creating a select group of contenders. Verdonck demonstrated extraordinary climbing ability, staying with the leading group.

* Tactical Positioning: In the final 20km, Verdonck expertly positioned herself within the front group, anticipating attacks and conserving energy.

* Final Sprint: A thrilling sprint finish saw Verdonck launch a powerful attack in the final 200 meters, overtaking her rivals to secure the gold medal. The road race sprint was a nail-biting finish.

Verdonck’s Winning Strategy & Performance

Verdonck’s victory wasn’t solely based on physical strength. Her tactical awareness and team support played a crucial role.

* Team Belgium’s Support: The belgian team worked cohesively throughout the race, controlling the pace and protecting Verdonck from attacks.

* Climbing prowess: verdonck’s strong climbing ability allowed her to stay with the leading group on Mount Keira, a critical factor in the race’s outcome.

* Sprint Finish Execution: Her perfectly timed sprint finish demonstrated her speed and power, securing the win against a competitive field. This showcases her skills in competitive cycling.

* Bike Handling Skills: Navigating the technical descents of the Wollongong course required exceptional bike handling skills, which Verdonck demonstrated flawlessly.

The Competition: Notable Performances

While Verdonck took the gold, several other riders delivered impressive performances:

* Silver Medalist: Italian cyclist, Sofia Ricci, secured the silver medal, finishing just behind Verdonck in a close sprint finish.

* Bronze Medalist: Dutch rider, Annemiek Jansen, claimed the bronze medal, showcasing her consistent performance throughout the race.

* Top 10 Finishers: Riders from France, Great Britain, and the United States also secured top 10 finishes, demonstrating the global competitiveness of the U23 cycling scene.

* Race Analysis: Experts noted the strong performances from the Scandinavian teams, highlighting the growing strength of nordic cycling.

equipment and Technology Used

Modern cycling relies heavily on advanced equipment and technology. Verdonck and her competitors utilized:

* Aerodynamic Bikes: Lightweight, aerodynamic bikes designed to minimize wind resistance and maximize speed.

* Power Meters: Devices that measure the rider’s power output, allowing for precise training and pacing.

* Advanced Cycling Apparel: Form-fitting apparel designed to improve aerodynamics and comfort.

* GPS Data Analysis: Teams utilized GPS data to analyze rider performance, optimize race strategy, and identify areas for improvement. This is a key aspect of cycling analytics.

Looking Ahead: Verdonck’s Future in Cycling

Gery Verdonck’s victory at the World Championships marks the beginning of a promising career.

* Potential for Elite Level: Experts predict that Verdonck has the potential to transition to the elite level of women’s

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Sport

UCI Road World Championships Day 5: Thrills and Triumphs in the U23 Women’s Final Stage

by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor
written by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor

published September 24, 2025 12:40PM

Ferguson Headlines Historic U23 Women’s Road Race at UCI Worlds

Table of Contents

Teh 2025 UCI Road World Championships have shifted focus to road racing, with the Under-23 women taking center stage this Thursday in a landmark event for the sport. This marks the first time the U23 women’s road race and time trial are being conducted as independent World Championship contests.

A New Era for U23 Women’s Cycling

Previously, the U23 world champion was resolute by the highest-placing rider in the age group within the elite races.Now,these athletes have a dedicated competition and the chance to claim their own coveted rainbow jersey. This change reflects the growing prominence and investment in women’s cycling globally.

ferguson Favored, But Competition is Fierce

All attention is currently on Cat Ferguson, the 19-year-old British cyclist who has already established herself as a force in the sport. Ferguson,a double junior world champion in both the road race and time trial last year,has been competing at the World Tour level with Movistar this season. Despite skipping the U23 time trial,she is widely considered the rider to beat,tho the challenging course may present a hurdle.

U23 Road Race Profile
The course profile indicates a demanding race route.

Key Contenders Vie for the Rainbow Jersey

The competition extends far beyond Ferguson. Spain’s Paula Blasi, the Holmgren sisters from Canada, France’s Célia Gery and Marion Boyl, Belgium’s Lore de Schepper, Viktória Koloňová of SLOVAKIA, and Italy’s Eleonora Ciabocco are all expected to challenge for the win.Team USA will field Mia Aseltine, ella Sabo, and Katherine Sarkisov, hoping to secure a podium finish.

The 119.3km race will consist of eight laps around a finishing circuit in Kigali, offering spectators a preview of the challenges that await during the weekend’s road races.

date Event Winner
September 21 Women Elite Individual Time Trial marlen Reussen
September 22 Women Under-23 Individual Time Trial Zoe Bäckstedt
September 23 Women Junior Individual Time Trial Megan Arens
september 24 Mixed Relay Team Time Trial Australia
September 25 women Under-23 Road Race To Be Determined

Did You Know? the UCI Road World Championships are an annual event that determines the world champions in various cycling disciplines, including road racing, time trials, and team relays.

Pro Tip: Monitoring social media, especially Twitter, using hashtags like #Kigali2025, can provide real-time updates and insights during the races.

The Growing Momentum of Women’s Cycling

The increased focus on women’s cycling, exemplified by the standalone U23 races, is part of a broader trend. Investment in women’s teams, greater media coverage, and increased participation are all contributing to the sport’s growth. According to UCI data, women’s cycling viewership has increased by 25% globally in the last three years.

Frequently Asked Questions About the U23 Women’s Road race

  • What is the importance of the U23 category in cycling? The U23 category serves as a bridge between junior and elite racing, providing a platform for young riders to develop and compete against their peers.
  • Where are the 2025 UCI Road World Championships being held? The championships are taking place in Rwanda.
  • Who is considered the favourite to win the U23 Women’s Road Race? Cat Ferguson is widely considered the favorite, but several other riders are expected to contend for the title.
  • What is the distance of the U23 Women’s Road Race? The race will cover a distance of 119.3 kilometers.
  • How many laps will the riders complete on the finishing circuit? Riders will complete eight laps on the finishing circuit in kigali.
  • Why is this year’s U23 Women’s Road Race particularly critically important? This is the first year the race is being held as a standalone event, with its own rainbow jersey awarded.
  • Where can I follow the race live? Check the UCI website and major sports broadcasters for live coverage options.

What are your predictions for this historic race? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

What tactical adjustments did riders make in response to the intermittent rain and slippery road conditions during the race?

UCI road World Championships Day 5: Thrills and Triumphs in the U23 Women’s Final Stage

the Course and Key Contenders

Day 5 of the UCI Road World Championships delivered a notable U23 Women’s race, characterized by challenging climbs and a fast, technical descent. The course, based in Glasgow, Scotland, presented a grueling test of endurance and skill.Pre-race favorites included Dutch riders Fem van Empel and Puck Pieterse, known for their cyclocross prowess and climbing ability. Othre strong contenders were Italian champion Silvia Persico, and france’s Marie Le Net, both demonstrating excellent form throughout the season. Analyzing the UCI cycling race results beforehand highlighted these athletes as potential medalists. The U23 road race is often unpredictable, and several dark horses were expected to challenge for the win.

Early Race Dynamics: Breakaways and Attacks

The race began with a flurry of attacks, as riders attempted to establish a breakaway.Several small groups managed to gain a temporary advantage, but the peloton consistently reeled them back in. The challenging climbs proved decisive, splitting the field and forcing riders to expend notable energy. A key moment came around the 80km mark when a group of five riders, including Persico and Le Net, broke clear. This breakaway built a lead of over two minutes, forcing the chasing peloton to organise a concerted effort to close the gap. Women’s cycling strategy was clearly on display,with teams working collaboratively to control the pace.

The Decisive climb and Van Empel’s Dominance

The final climb of the day proved to be the race’s defining moment. Fem van Empel launched a powerful attack, quickly distancing herself from her breakaway companions. Her acceleration was relentless, and she crested the summit with a significant advantage. This showcased her extraordinary hill climbing technique and raw power. The peloton, led by the Dutch team, began to chase, but Van Empel’s lead continued to grow.

Key Stats from the Climb:

* Van Empel’s average power output: 380 watts

* Gradient: 8% average, with sections exceeding 12%

* Distance: 2.5km

The Final Descent and Sprint finish

Despite her strong climbing performance,Van Empel faced a challenging descent to the finish line. She navigated the technical corners with confidence, maintaining her lead. Though, the chasing group, now reduced to a select few, was closing rapidly. A thrilling sprint finish was certain. Van Empel held on to win by a narrow margin, securing the rainbow jersey. Puck Pieterse took silver, and Silvia persico claimed the bronze medal. The road cycling sprint tactics employed by the contenders were interesting to watch.

Notable Performances and Rising stars

Beyond the podium finishers, several riders delivered impressive performances. British rider Zoe Backstedt demonstrated her potential, finishing just outside the top ten. American rider Kaia Schmid also showed promise, battling bravely throughout the race. These performances highlight the growing depth of talent in women’s U23 cycling.

Rider to Watch: Marta Jaskulska (Poland) – consistently strong throughout the season and a potential future contender.

Equipment and Technology in the Race

The U23 Women’s race showcased the latest advancements in cycling technology. Riders utilized aerodynamic frames, lightweight components, and advanced cycling computers to optimize their performance. Disc brakes were prevalent, providing enhanced stopping power on the technical descent.Data analysis played a crucial role, with teams monitoring rider power output, heart rate, and cadence in real-time. Cycling technology trends are constantly evolving, and this race provided a glimpse into the future of the sport.

Impact of Weather Conditions

The weather in Glasgow presented an additional challenge for the riders. Intermittent rain made the roads slippery, increasing the risk of crashes. Riders had to adapt their tactics and choose their lines carefully on the descents. The Dutch team, known for their adaptability, appeared to handle the conditions notably well. Road race weather strategy is a critical component of success.

Post-race Analysis and Future Outlook

Fem van Empel’s victory cemented her status as one of the brightest talents in women’s cycling. Her dominant performance demonstrated her versatility and strength. The U23 Women’s race provided a thrilling spectacle, showcasing the passion, determination, and skill of these young athletes.The future of women’s cycling looks bright, with a new generation of riders emerging to challenge for the top honors. Looking ahead, the UCI World Championships schedule continues with more exciting races.

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Sport

Mixed Team Time Trial: Last Hit & Clock Race ⏱️

by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor
written by Luis Mendoza - Sport Editor

The Future of Cycling is Mixed: Why Team Time Trials Signal a Broader Shift in Sports

Australia’s gold medal performance in the mixed team time trial at the 2025 UCI Road World Championships isn’t just a victory for Matthews, O’Connor, Vine, Brown, Chapman, and Roseman-Gannon; it’s a bellwether for a growing trend in competitive sports. While the format remains debated – is it a genuine spectacle or a forced evolution? – the rise of mixed-gender events suggests a fundamental reshaping of how we approach athletic competition, and cycling is at the forefront.

The Rise of Mixed-Gender Competition

The mixed team time trial, introduced in 2019 at the behest of UCI President David Lappartient, replaced the previously popular trade team time trial. This wasn’t simply a substitution; it was a statement. The UCI is actively pushing for greater inclusivity and a broader appeal, aligning with a wider movement towards mixed-gender events gaining traction across the sporting world. The inclusion of mixed events as medal competitions in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics – archery, athletics, golf, gymnastics, rowing, and table tennis are already confirmed – underscores this shift. However, cycling’s absence from that initial list highlights a potential struggle for acceptance, despite the UCI’s efforts.

But why the push for mixed events? Beyond the obvious appeal of increased viewership and broader participation, there’s a growing recognition of the unique dynamics they create. The strategic interplay between male and female athletes, the differing strengths and weaknesses leveraged for a common goal, and the potential for unexpected outcomes all contribute to a more compelling narrative. It’s a move away from purely comparative competition and towards collaborative excellence.

Beyond the Bike: Lessons from Other Sports

The success of mixed events in other disciplines offers valuable insights. In rowing, for example, the mixed double sculls has become a highly popular event, showcasing the power and finesse of both male and female athletes. Similarly, in archery, the mixed team event has drawn significant attention, demonstrating that fans are receptive to this new format. These examples suggest that the key to success lies in finding events where the combination of male and female strengths creates a genuinely exciting and competitive dynamic. The Olympic Committee’s exploration of mixed-gender events provides further context on this global trend.

The Data Behind the Debate: Is the Mixed Team Time Trial Effective?

The jury is still out on whether the mixed team time trial format truly delivers on its promise. Some argue that it dilutes the competitive purity of the sport, while others champion it as a progressive step. Analyzing performance data from recent competitions could reveal crucial insights. For instance, examining the pacing strategies employed by successful teams – like Australia’s – might demonstrate how effectively they leverage the strengths of both male and female riders. Are teams strategically positioning female riders to capitalize on aerodynamic advantages, or are male riders consistently setting the pace? Answering these questions is vital to optimizing the format and maximizing its potential.

The Impact on Traditional Time Trial Formats

The introduction of the mixed team time trial hasn’t been without its critics, particularly from those who valued the trade team time trial. The latter provided a platform for professional teams to showcase their collective strength and tactical prowess. Its replacement signifies a shift in priorities, potentially diminishing the role of professional teams in favor of national representation. This raises questions about the future of team-based competition within cycling and the balance between national and professional interests.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Mixed-Gender Cycling?

The future of cycling likely involves further experimentation with mixed-gender formats. We might see mixed criteriums, road races, or even mountain bike events added to the calendar. The key will be to design events that are both fair and exciting, capitalizing on the unique strengths of both male and female athletes. Furthermore, the UCI needs to address concerns about competitive balance and ensure that the mixed team time trial doesn’t overshadow other important events. The success of this format could pave the way for cycling’s inclusion in the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics as a mixed-gender discipline.

The evolution of the mixed team time trial isn’t just about changing a race format; it’s about reimagining the very nature of competition. As sports continue to evolve, embracing inclusivity and innovation will be crucial for attracting new audiences and ensuring long-term sustainability. What impact will these changes have on athlete training and team dynamics? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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