High tension right at the start of the elite title fights: The 27-year-old mixed relay world champion from 2023, Nicole Koller from Wetzikon, beat Linda Indergand (Liv Factory Racing) and Stefi Häberlin (Team BMC) in a dramatic sprint decision. Sina Frei (Specialized Factory Racing) also crossed the finish line in almost the same breath.

Lars Forster with stellar performance

In the men's race, on the other hand, Lars Forster established clear conditions on the third-last lap. The 30-year-old 2023 European XCO runner-up was then able to ride the last two laps unchallenged to the title. Marcel Guerrini (BIXS Performance Race Team), 9 seconds behind, and defending champion and favorite Thomas Litscher (Lapierre Mavic Unity, 11 seconds behind) completed the podium.

In the juniors, the favorite Nicolas Halter (KA BOOM Krapf) won in a "training race" without a title being awarded, while Lara Liehner (Thömus Akros Youngstars) won the junior women's race.

Almost 700 starters - 9 titles in total

Almost 700 riders are expected to take part in the big championship weekend in Vaud. In addition to the official nine Swiss championship titles, the U17 Swiss Champion awards will also be presented on Saturday as part of the CIC Swiss Bike Cup.

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