200+ World Cup Riders Protest Warner Brothers 3 Person Podium

In a move reminiscent of the 2024 Crankworx Rotorua event—where male slopestyle athletes boycotted the competition over disputes concerning appearance fees and safety measures - over 120 elite cross-country (XCO) racers and now 61 riders have now voiced their dissatisfaction with the UCI's decision to limit World Cup podiums to three riders instead of the traditional five.

This protest unfolded just before the opening round of the World Cup series, highlighting the athletes' collective demand for broader recognition of top performers.​ The UCI's recent shift to three-rider podiums has sparked considerable debate within the mountain biking community. Traditionally, the top five finishers have been celebrated, allowing for a more inclusive acknowledgment of outstanding performances. The protesting XCO and DH racers argue that reducing the podium spots diminishes the recognition and morale of those who place fourth and fifth, positions that often represent significant personal and professional achievements.​

This collective action by the XC athletes mirrors the earlier stance taken by the male slopestyle riders at Crankworx Rotorua in 2024. In that instance, male slopestyle competitors withdrew from the event, citing unmet demands for appearance fees and enhanced support infrastructure. Despite negotiations, including a proposed 37% increase in prize money, the riders felt their concerns were not adequately addressed, leading to their decision to sit out the competition.​ The current protest by XCO racers underscores a growing trend among mountainbiking athletes advocating for their rights and proper recognition within the sport.

By uniting in such significant numbers, these riders aim to prompt the UCI to reconsider its podium policies, emphasizing the importance of honoring a broader spectrum of top competitors. This movement reflects a broader push within the mountainbiking community to ensure that athletes' voices are heard and their achievements duly celebrated.​

Notable riders who have publicly supported the protest lead by Rebecca Henderson include:​

• Loic Bruni

• Ronan Dunne

• Amaury Pierron

• Greg Minnaar

• Nino Schurter​

• Jolanda Neff​

• Anne Terpstra​

• Mathias Flückiger​

These athletes, among others, have expressed their deep disappointment and frustration with the UCI's decision, emphasizing the need for fair and consistent policies that recognize the efforts of top competitors.

XCO racing is an exciting discipline and the season starts in Brazil - video from 2024: