April 1/17 0:51 am - UCI Awards Cyclo-cross Worlds to Doha - UPDATED

Posted by Editor on 04/1/17
 

APRIL FOOLS !! No, the UCI has NOT awarded the 2020 World Cyclo-cross Championships to Doha, Qatar.

Thanks to Bruce Wenting, of Wentings Cycle & Mountain Shop for the suggestion table { }td { padding-top: 1px; padding-right: 1px; padding-left: 1px; color: black; font-size: 12pt; font-weight: 400; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; font-family: Calibri,sans-serif; vertical-align: bottom; border: medium none; white-space: nowrap; }

Today the UCI announced the location for the 2020 World Cyclo-cross Championships, choosing Doha, Qatar.  Doha hosted the 2016 Road World Championships, to mixed reviews. The UCI claims this location will further expand the international reach of the sport, which has become a key requirement for getting the sport added to the Olympic program.

"It is with great pride that we announce the 2020 UCI World Cyclo-cross Championships will take place in Doha, Qatar, from February 1-2," states Brian Cookson, president of the UCI. "After the success of the Road Cycling World Championships last Fall, we feel that Doha will be a fantastic host and will provide a unique course. Also, I won't have to freeze my arse off watching the damned thing."

The UCI pointed to the immense popularity of the sandy terrain featured at the Koksijde World Cup and the 2012 world championships hosted by the Belgian seaside town as further reason for decision, as well as an average January daytime temperature of 22 Celcius.

Instead of the usual beer tent, a coffee pavilion will be erected, and a palm tree obstacle feature will be incorporated into the course.  There are also plans to include camel races as a spectator draw.