Round 3 of the Uci Cyclocross World Cup in Cabras, on the western coast of Sardinia, was cancelled today due to strong winds. Yesterday and overnight conditions wreaked havoc on the course at the beach of Is Arutas.
A powerful storm hit the island on Saturday, releasing heavy rain. Since Saturday night, an orange wind warning and a yellow rain warning have been issued for the area. By Sunday morning, gusts reaching close to 100 kilometres per hour persisted, causing barriers and tents to collapse, posing a potential risk to riders and spectators.
The UCI issued a statement along with race organizers at around 11am local time announcing the cancellation of the women's and men's race, which is scheduled to start at 1:40pm
"Due to severe storms hitting, Altas (Cabras) and the rest of Sardinia have decided to cancel the 3rd World Cup event of the season." It was decided to cancel. The local Organizing Committee, Flanders Classic, the City of Cabras, UCI and the Security Service agreed to this decision because they were unable to guarantee the safety of riders, staff, volunteers and the public," uci said in a release.
The conditions cannot allow the postponement, and the only Cyclocross World Cup held in Italy must be cancelled this year, but the organizers have made it clear that they plan to return in 2025.
"In addition, given the weather forecast for the next few hours and the sunset at 5 p.m., we cannot predict the postponement of the two scheduled races. Ensuring the safety of all athletes, fans and staff is a top priority in making this necessary decision. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.
Even worse for local organizers, a fire caused by lightning destroyed a makeshift bar and dining room, as well as a press room, according to a report by het Nieuwsblad.
After the first two Cyclocross World Cup rounds, Lucinda Brand (Baloise-Trek Lions) has already won the World Cup trophy twice in the Women's Elite category
Belgium's Michael Vandholenhout has won the Men's Elite Ranking. He has a smaller margin than his compatriot and Pauwels Sauzen・Bingoal teammate Eli Iserbyt (62 points compared to 65 points).
The 4th round of the UCI World Cup will be held in Namur, Belgium, in 2024-12-15.
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