Britain’s Tom Pidcock, renowned for his prowess on both road and mountain bikes, continues to dazzle the cycling world with his unmatched off-road skills. Despite his primary role with Ineos Grenadiers on the road, the 24-year-old Yorkshireman’s dominance on gravel and trails marks him as a standout in the cycling elite.
Pidcock’s versatility shone brightly in recent triumphs, notably claiming victory on the daunting Alpe d’Huez descent during the 2022 Tour de France and conquering the gravel-laden Strade Bianche in 2023. His early years in cyclo-cross provided the foundation for his exceptional bike-handling abilities, which he effortlessly showcases when racing off-road.
“Mountain biking is where I find pure enjoyment in racing — the thrill and excitement fuel my performance,” Pidcock reflects. “Unlike the strategic demands of a Grand Tour, off-road races allow me to race freely and passionately.”
His Olympic gold in cross-country at Tokyo 2020 underscored his dominance, outclassing top competitors including Swiss legend Nino Schurter. Pidcock’s upcoming participation in the Tour de France aims for stage victories and a possible podium finish, setting the stage for his return to Paris to defend his Olympic title in cross-country.
While Pidcock remains a force to reckon with, the anticipated duel with Mathieu van der Poel, another versatile rider with mountain biking roots, seems unlikely this season. Van der Poel’s focus on the Tour de France and the Olympic road race has shifted attention away from a potential clash on the mountain bike circuit, much to the disappointment of fans.
As Pidcock gears up for the Paris Olympics, all eyes will be on him to repeat his stellar performance on the challenging Elancourt Hill circuit. In the women’s event, France’s Pauline Ferrand-Prevot emerges as a formidable contender, determined to clinch Olympic gold in her final season before transitioning to road cycling.
The Paris cross-country races promise exhilarating action across the 4.4km Elancourt circuit, utilizing existing trails to test the endurance and skill of the world’s best riders.
