Filippo Colombo prepares for the World Championships at the Bikefestival Basel
Filippo Colombo (SCOTT-SRAM MTB Racing Team) will be wearing the new championship jersey with the Swiss cross for the first time at the 6th round of the CIC Swiss Bike Cup on August 24/25, 2024 at the Schänzli Arena in Basel. Seraina Leugger (BIXS Performance Race Team) wants to make her mark in the elite women's race at her home race.
August 20, 2024
The large cloud of dust that envelops the Schänzli during the startloop is legendary. A good position after the hectic start is a must for the upcoming games on the flat and tactical course in Basel.
These features of the course will be of particular benefit to the new Swiss champion Filippo Colombo, who is looking to get back into the race rhythm after a short summer break and seven wins so far this season. The Ticino native from Bironico is currently still training at altitude and preparing for the UCI Mountain Bike World Championships (26.8. - 1.9. 2024) in Vallnord, Andorra.
Colombo placed a strong second in 2023 on the Schänzli. Next weekend, he wants to gain the confidence he needs for the World Championships with a win. As the current European champion, the Italian Simone Avondetto (Willier Vittoria Factory Team), however, wants to claim forthe top spot as well. Marcel Guerrini (BIXS Performance Race Team) could also have a say in the decision. The rider from Lucerne has fond memories of the Schänzli, as he came out on top in a thrilling sprint in Basel in 2022.
Seraina Leugger in good form
Seraina Leugger (BIXS PERFORMANCE Race Team) from Arlesheim is particularly motivated for her home race, especially as the runner-up in the overall standings of the CIC Swiss Bike Cup can look forward to an upward trend in form. At the World Cup races in Crans Montana in June, she finished in the top 20 in both cross-country and short track for the first time. Steffi Häberlin (Team BMC) can also hope for a top result. The up-coming rider from Thurgau will travel to Andorra for the World Championships directly after the race in Basel.
The junior races also promise spectacular racing and plenty of excitement. Numerous national teams will be making a stopover in Basel before the World Championships. This should not only lead to large fields of participants, but also ensure exciting and open decisions.
The Bikefestival Basel is taking place for the 28th time. A total of over 650 participants are expected to take part in the CIC Swiss Bike Cup. Once again this year, the Bikefestival Basel offers an exciting program with public races, jump shows, trial shows and numerous other activities in the Hippodrom.
Late entries are possible on Saturday and Sunday at the race site.