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19 hrs

Zoe Backstedt defends her title at the UCI Cyclo-cross Worlds, while the cycling community mourns Aidan Worden`s tragic death.

Zoe Backstedt showcased her exceptional talent by defending her under-23 women`s title at the 2025 UCI Cyclo-cross World Championships. This victory marks her as only the second woman to win the title twice, joining fellow Brit Evie Richards in this elite club. Backstedt`s performance was nothing short of spectacular; despite an early setback that saw her drop to fifth place after a wipeout, she quickly regained her composure. Demonstrating remarkable power and poise, she surged back to the front, ultimately crossing the finish line with a commanding 21-second lead over Marie Schreiber.

Her teammates also made significant contributions, with Ella Maclean-Howell finishing eighth, Imogen Wolff in ninth, and Cat Ferguson securing thirteenth place. The race conditions were particularly challenging, characterized by a slippery course. Backstedt`s strategic adjustment of her tyre pressure mid-race proved crucial, enhancing her comfort and control on the bike.

In the elite men`s category, Matthieu van der Poel continued to dominate, clinching his seventh cyclo-cross world title. British riders Thomas Mein and Cam Mason finished 18th and 26th, respectively, showcasing the competitive spirit of the UK cycling scene.

Additionally, the Trofeo Palma road race for men took place on February 2, 2025, in Palma de Mallorca, although detailed results have yet to be released.

Tragically, the cycling community mourns the loss of 18-year-old Aidan Worden, the UK Junior 25-Mile Time Trial Champion, who was killed in a traffic collision while training with teammates on February 1, 2025.

For more on Backstedt`s remarkable achievement, visit Zoe Backstedt. For updates on the Trofeo Palma, check Trofeo Palma.

#CycloCross,#ZoeBackstedt,#UCIWorlds,#CyclingNews,#AidanWorden