International Cyclo-cross racing for the 2025/2026 Season
The Cycling Ireland Off-road Commission, in collaboration with the Cycling Ireland High Performance Unit, has been reviewing the selection & participation of riders for the major Cyclo-Cross calendar events. Domestically we have lost 2 UCI ranked events but there remains a relatively vibrant domestic racing scene, although it is recognised that the level in Ireland remains a step removed from other countries and there is ongoing focus needed to increase participation. In past seasons teams have been selected and raced World Cups, European Championships and World Championships. However, this level of competition, especially in the context of poor gridding opportunities, has always been at an exposure level too high relative to the domestic level and the potential for Irish riders to be competitive and gain a positive development learning from that standard of race has been limited.
Going forward, the Commission’s plan is to support riders with domestic training & coaching opportunities and travel to compete in lower tier races in Europe, against higher quality fields, at a more suitable exposure level (e.g. C1, C2). We believe this level of racing will provide a more effective and sustainable development pathway for riders in the discipline as they can gain valuable experience, learn the skills and tactics while developing the necessary CX specific fitness in races where they can be more competitive. The support team would provide each rider with coaching input & specific goals for each race.
This approach aligns more closely with the High Performance Pathway strategy and enhances the potential for our young CX riders to develop the resilience and skills required to grow to become more complete CX riders, similar to their European peers, with the medium to long term aim of supported participation in World Cups & Major Championships when they are demonstrating readiness for that step up in competition standard.
This development opportunity is open to riders born 2004-2011 (Under 16 to Under 23). If you are interested in being part of this please complete this expression of interest form here.