Matej Mohorič, the Slovenian cyclist known for his versatility and relentless racing style, is gearing up to defend his title at the UCI Gravel World Championships. Having emerged victorious in the inaugural event in 2023, Mohorič is returning with the determination to once again prove his dominance in this increasingly popular and challenging discipline. However, the defending champion is fully aware that the gravel racing landscape is unpredictable, citing the surprise results of last year as a clear reminder.
Mohorič’s victory in the 2023 UCI Gravel World Championships was a testament to his ability to adapt to the unique challenges posed by gravel racing. Gravel races differ from traditional road races, blending elements of endurance, technical skill, and off-road prowess. Riders must navigate through mixed terrain, from loose gravel to rugged paths, all while managing the uncertainty of weather and mechanical issues.
For Mohorič, these challenges play into his strengths as a rider. Known for his aggressive style and tactical intelligence, the Slovenian has made a name for himself by excelling in races that require both physical endurance and mental toughness. His ability to thrive in unpredictable conditions was on full display during his win in 2023, and he’s looking to replicate that performance in this year’s event.
However, Mohorič is the first to admit that gravel racing can be full of surprises. “Last year, Wout van Aert was the favorite, and he didn’t win,” Mohorič pointed out in a recent interview, highlighting the unpredictable nature of gravel racing. Van Aert, one of the world’s top cyclists and a pre-race favorite, fell short despite his impressive pedigree, illustrating that in gravel racing, anything can happen.
Unlike road racing, gravel racing tends to be far less predictable. The courses are often unpaved and can vary dramatically in difficulty, with riders facing everything from steep climbs to technical descents over loose surfaces. Mechanical issues such as punctures are more frequent, and the lack of team support vehicles close by means that riders often have to fend for themselves. As a result, gravel racing places a premium on self-reliance and resilience.
Mohorič’s 2023 victory was a masterclass in both of these attributes. In that race, he outmaneuvered his rivals, maintaining a strong pace and avoiding the kind of mishaps that can easily derail a gravel race. His ability to balance aggression with caution, pushing the pace when needed but conserving energy and managing risks, was key to his success.
This year, he knows that the same approach will be necessary. “Gravel races are not like the road – anything can happen, and anyone can win,” Mohorič emphasized. “You can be the best rider on the day, but a puncture or a small mistake can cost you the victory.”
Mohorič’s comments about van Aert also speak to the nature of the field this year. Gravel racing has drawn a diverse group of participants, with professional road cyclists, mountain bikers, and dedicated gravel racers all converging to compete for the coveted rainbow jersey. The blend of disciplines creates an open and unpredictable race, where a broad range of riders can contend for victory.
Among the notable participants this year, Wout van Aert is once again considered a top contender. After his disappointment in 2023, van Aert is likely to come back with renewed determination, looking to prove that he can conquer the gravel world. His combination of power and technical skill makes him well-suited for gravel racing, though as last year proved, even the favorites are not guaranteed success.
Other potential challengers include riders like Mathieu van der Poel, who, like van Aert, has shown his ability to excel across multiple cycling disciplines. Van der Poel’s background in cyclocross and mountain biking gives him the technical skills needed for the tricky terrain of gravel racing. Additionally, dedicated gravel specialists will be eager to showcase their prowess, many of them having honed their skills in events like Unbound Gravel and other major gravel races.
As Mohorič prepares for the defense of his title, he knows that his success will depend on a mix of preparation and adaptability. Gravel racing often requires more than just raw strength; it demands smart pacing, precise handling, and the ability to read the race as it unfolds.
“Preparation is key, but you also have to expect the unexpected,” Mohorič explained. “You can never be sure what the course will throw at you, and you have to be ready for everything.”
This mentality has become a hallmark of Mohorič’s approach. His meticulous attention to detail, from selecting the right tire setup to planning for potential mechanical issues, allows him to mitigate risks as much as possible. However, he knows that no matter how well-prepared he is, luck will always play a role in gravel racing.
As the 2024 UCI Gravel World Championships approach, the cycling world is eager to see how Mohorič’s title defense will unfold. The unpredictability of gravel racing ensures that the event will be exciting, with fans and riders alike wondering who will rise to the occasion.
While Wout van Aert and other top contenders may pose a significant challenge, Mohorič remains confident in his ability to handle whatever the race throws at him. “I’m ready to fight for the title again, but I know it won’t be easy. Gravel racing never is,” he said with a smile, reflecting on the mix of excitement and uncertainty that defines the sport.
In a race where mechanical issues, terrain challenges, and even the weather can shift the balance, Mohorič knows that nothing is guaranteed. But one thing is certain – he will approach the race with the same tenacity, intelligence, and adaptability that has made him a formidable competitor in the world of cycling. Whether he can defend his title or not, Matej Mohorič is ready for the challenge, knowing full well that gravel racing, as he aptly put it, is a sport where “anything can happen.”
