Matej Mohorič, the Slovenian cycling star known for his versatility across multiple disciplines, is gearing up to defend his title at the UCI Gravel World Championships. With the event looming on the horizon, Mohorič is cautiously optimistic about his chances but remains fully aware of the unpredictability that accompanies the gravel racing format. The reigning champion’s remarks about last year’s race highlight this sentiment: “Last year Wout van Aert was the favorite and didn’t win.” His words echo the unique nature of gravel racing, where tactics, terrain, and luck can turn the race in unexpected directions.
Unlike road racing, where teams and individual riders often follow meticulously planned strategies, gravel racing tends to introduce more variables. The off-road format, featuring a mixture of dirt paths, rocky trails, and sections of tarmac, poses distinct challenges. Riders face mechanical issues, punctures, and the sheer physical toll of navigating over uneven terrain for long distances. These factors can shift the dynamics of the race in an instant, meaning that a favorite entering the race might not always be the one to cross the finish line first.
This unpredictability is what makes gravel racing so thrilling and why Mohorič is approaching his title defense with a mix of confidence and realism. “It’s a different type of race. The best rider doesn’t always win,” he said. He knows that preparation and experience will only take him so far — once the race starts, anything can happen.
Mohorič’s reference to Wout van Aert, the Belgian superstar who was tipped to win last year, reinforces the theme of uncertainty in gravel racing. Van Aert, known for his prowess in cyclo-cross, road racing, and time trials, was widely regarded as the man to beat at the 2023 Gravel World Championships. However, the course and circumstances played out differently, with van Aert unable to secure the victory that so many had anticipated.
For Mohorič, last year’s result serves as a reminder that being a favorite on paper doesn’t always translate to success on gravel. While Van Aert was undeniably strong, gravel races can derail the most well-laid plans through punctures, crashes, or even just the sheer difficulty of the course. For riders like Mohorič, this reality forces them to expect surprises and focus not just on their own strength but on how to adapt to the race’s ever-shifting conditions.
As the defending champion, Mohorič has spent the past year preparing meticulously for his return to the Gravel World Championships. His approach has been holistic, working on both his physical conditioning and his technical handling skills for the varied and demanding terrain. Gravel racing requires a hybrid skill set, combining the endurance and strategy of road racing with the technical handling of mountain biking and cyclo-cross. Mohorič, having excelled in multiple disciplines, appears well-equipped to handle this combination.
But the Slovenian is under no illusions. “Gravel is not like any other type of cycling,” he explained in a recent interview. “You can be at your best, but if you have bad luck, it’s over.” His preparation includes studying the course, identifying areas where mechanical issues are likely, and refining his ability to respond quickly to the unexpected.
He has also placed a great deal of emphasis on maintaining mental flexibility during the race. “You need to adapt constantly,” he said. “One minute you’re pushing on a flat section, and the next you’re trying to navigate a tricky descent. If you’re too rigid in your strategy, you’re bound to make mistakes.”
Despite the unpredictability, Mohorič knows he will face stiff competition from a field stacked with talent. While van Aert remains a top contender, the gravel world has seen the emergence of several riders who could pose serious threats. Cyclo-cross specialists, endurance racers, and road racing pros with a knack for off-road cycling are all looking to leave their mark on the sport.
Mohorič, however, welcomes the challenge. “There’s no point in worrying about who’s in the race. You just have to do your best and deal with whatever comes your way.” His focus, as always, remains on his own performance rather than being drawn into the hype surrounding his rivals.
The course for this year’s Gravel World Championships is expected to play a significant role in determining the outcome. Gravel races are notorious for their tough, unpredictable terrain, and the 2024 edition will be no different. With stretches of loose gravel, rocky climbs, and technical descents, the course will test the riders’ handling skills and stamina to the fullest. Weather conditions could also add an extra layer of difficulty, as rain could turn the trails into mud baths or create hazardous slippery conditions.
For Mohorič, a rider known for his ability to endure tough, long races, this course plays to his strengths. Yet, as he has often mentioned, no one can predict how a gravel race will unfold. One puncture or mechanical issue could drastically alter the outcome, regardless of how well the rider is performing at any given moment.
Having been through the highs and lows of competitive cycling, Matej Mohorič has learned the importance of tactical flexibility. In road races, Mohorič is known for his daring attacks and calculated risks, skills that translate well into gravel racing where seizing the right moment can make or break a race.
He also draws on his experience from last year’s race, where he had to adapt to the pace and terrain to claim victory. Mohorič has said that maintaining a calm, composed mindset throughout the race is crucial to handling the ever-changing conditions of gravel riding.
“I expect surprises,” he says with a smile. “There are always surprises in gravel racing. You can’t win if you’re not ready to adapt.”
If Mohorič successfully defends his title, it will solidify his position as one of the top gravel racers in the world. More than that, it would confirm his status as a rider capable of excelling in nearly every cycling discipline — from road racing to gravel, mountain biking, and beyond.
But no matter the result, Mohorič’s approach to the 2024 Gravel World Championships speaks to his humility and respect for the sport. “It’s never easy to win a race like this. Last year was special, but this year will be different, and I’m ready for that.”
As the race day approaches, all eyes will be on Matej Mohorič as he prepares to defend his title in what promises to be an exciting and unpredictable showdown. Whether he will succeed in his quest or be surprised by the unpredictable nature of the race, as van Aert was last year, remains to be seen. One thing is certain: Mohorič is ready to take on the challenge, come what may.
