If you’re eager to catch the Olympic mountain biking events this weekend, here’s a quick guide to help you stay informed about the schedule, racers, and how to watch.
Women’s Cross-Country Race
- Date: Sunday, July 28
- Time: 12:10 PM (UK time)
- Participants: 36 riders
- Duration: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes (final duration will be determined based on weather conditions)
Men’s Cross-Country Race
- Date: Monday, July 29
- Time: 12:10 PM (UK time)
- Participants: 36 riders
- Duration: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes (final duration will be determined based on weather conditions)
How to Watch
You can follow the action on the BBC. The races will be available on the BBC iPlayer in the Olympics section and may also be broadcast live on television. Additionally, Discovery+ and Eurosport will be providing coverage.
Previous Winners
Women’s Podium (Last Olympics):
- Gold: Jolanda Neff
- Silver: Sina Freie
- Bronze: Linda Indergand
Men’s Podium (Last Olympics):
- Gold: Tom Pidcock
- Silver: Mathias Flueckiger
- Bronze: David Valero Serrano
Current Favorites
This year’s competition will be without defending champion Jolanda Neff, who is still recovering from a respiratory issue. Key contenders include Pauline Ferrand-Prevot, Haley Batten, Jenny Rissveds, and Team GB’s Evie Richards.
For the men’s race, Tom Pidcock remains a strong favorite despite his recent departure from The Tour de France due to a COVID-related concern. Other top competitors to watch are Nino Schurter, Chris Blevins, Mathias Fluckiger, and local contender Victor Korektzy.
The Course
Unlike the mountainous terrains typically seen in Olympic mountain biking events, this year’s course is set on Élancourt Hill, an old spoil heap near Paris. The course features a summit at 231 meters and a 4.4-kilometer lap with 110 meters of elevation gain. The track, primarily built on existing paths, will incorporate a mix of natural and manmade elements.
Team GB Competitors
Men’s Team:
- Charlie Aldridge
- Tom Pidcock
Women’s Team:
- Ella Maclean-Howell
- Evie Richards
Tune in to witness top mountain biking talent compete on this uniquely challenging course!