Quicktakes | UCI World Champs
The 2021 UCI Road World Championships, held in Flanders, Belgium, was a season filled with drama and intense competition. One of the key highlights was the elite men’s road race, where French cyclist Julian Alaphilippe successfully defended his title. Alaphilippe executed a daring solo attack with over 17 kilometers remaining and managed to hold off a strong chase group, securing his second consecutive rainbow jersey in a thrilling finish in Leuven.
In the elite women’s road race, Dutch cyclist Elisa Balsamo emerged victorious, ending the race with a powerful sprint to outpace her rivals. Her win marked a significant achievement in her career, as she managed to beat strong contenders from the Dutch team, which included favorites like Marianne Vos.
The championships featured challenging courses with steep climbs and technical sections, particularly the demanding Flandrien circuit. The 2021 UCI Road World Championships were a testament to the riders' resilience and tactical prowess, with Alaphilippe and Balsamo's victories highlighting their exceptional talent and competitive spirit.