The 2024 Gravel World Championships, which took place in Flanders this weekend, have sparked tensions in the Belgian team, which has had a strong presence in the top positions. Although 7 of the top 10 finishers were Belgians, gold eluded them.
One of the harshest was Jasper Stuyven, the fourth-placed player, who did not hesitate to accuse his compatriots, Gianni Vermeersch and Quinten Hermans, of prioritising the interests of their commercial teams over those of the national team.
However, the riders did not back down from the criticism. “It is always better if someone from Alpecin wins,” said Gianni Vermeersch.
Although these statements have sparked debate, no clear judgement can be made from the broadcast of the race. We all know that in a race there are situations that the spectator cannot always capture.
TOP 10 MEN
- Mathieu Van der Poel (NED) – 4:41:23
- Florian Vermeersch (BEL) – 4:42:26
- Quinten Hermans (BEL) – 4:45:10
- Jasper De Stuyven (BEL) – 4:45:10
- Gianni Vermeersch (BEL) – 4:45:11
- Connor Swift (GBR) – 4:45:11
- Matej Mohoric (SLO) – 4:45:11
- Tim Merlier (BEL) – 4:45:38
- Timo Kielich (BEL) – 4:45:38
- Toon Aerts (BEL) – 4:45:38