CISM World Military Cyclo-cross Championship returns in style

DIEKIRCH (LUX) - Last weekend marked the long-awaited return of the CISM Military World Cycling Championship in the discipline of cyclo-cross. The most recent CISM Cycling World Championship took place in 2021 in Poitiers, France, in the discipline of road racing.

Luxembourg boldly picked up the challenge of bringing cyclo-cross back to the CISM stage. In a region where the discipline is deeply rooted and immensely popular, the host nation stayed true to its sporting culture and embraced the opportunity with confidence. From the moment delegations arrived, it was clear that the organisers were committed to delivering excellence. Comfortable accommodation, seamless logistics and warm hospitality ensured that every participant felt welcomed and valued. Luxembourg once again proved that it is a small nation capable of great deeds.

For months, registrations stood at an impressive number, representing nations from three continents. Although several non-European delegations had to withdraw shortly before the event, the championship ultimately featured only European teams on the start line. Still, the competition retained its world-level quality, strengthened by the presence of an enthusiastic civilian crowd thanks to its combination with a local cyclo-cross event.

The first race on the programme was the masters category, where the experienced and battle-hardened riders showed their class in one of the day’s most gripping contests. A leading trio quickly formed, with two Luxembourgish riders in front, urged on passionately by the home crowd. But despite the loud and loyal support, Luuk Nissen (NED) claimed victory in 38:15, ahead of Luxembourg’s duo Dany Papi and Oliver Paderhuber, who took second and third respectively.

The elite women followed with an equally compelling performance. It was a beautiful and hard-fought race that highlighted both the quality and the strategic importance of women’s cycling within CISM. Romy Kasper (GER) dominated the competition in 35:23 to take gold in the Masters category. Vita Movrin (SLO) followed with a strong performance to claim second place among the elite riders, while her teammate Tanja Zakelj (SLO) secured third place, reinforcing Slovenia’s depth by finishing as the second Masters athlete on the podium. This event once again demonstrated CISM’s commitment to ensuring that women’s races remain a central part of every championship.

The day concluded with the elite men, delivering the finale the home crowd had been waiting for. After a demanding and technically challenging race, Loic Bettendorf (LUX) delivered a masterclass on home soil, securing the world title in 50:37. Elio Clarysse (BEL) fought hard to take silver and proudly represent Belgium, while Matthias Alberti (GER) completed the podium with a steady and technically solid performance for Germany. The local supporters were rewarded with a proud and emotional victory on their own soil.

The team classification crowned the Netherlands as the overall winners, followed by Luxembourg and Germany, with Slovenia, France and Belgium completing the top six.

Belgium received the Fair Play Cup for demonstrating outstanding sportsmanship with a small but spirited delegation. Every athlete and team deserves recognition. The event showcased the full spectrum of cyclo-cross: joy, pain, grit and determination. It embodied the essence of military sport.

The Netherlands also received the Friendship Through Sport Trophy, reflecting their exemplary spirit and camaraderie throughout the championship.

During the opening ceremony, the Chief of Delegation of Luxembourg expressed his hope to witness not only fierce racing, but also joy among the riders. Throughout the day that spirit was unmistakable. Competition and camaraderie were in perfect balance, reflecting the core values of CISM.

The closing ceremony looked confidently toward the future of military cycling. In the presence of the CISM Secretary General, the Official CISM Representative received the CISM flag on behalf of the Spanish delegation. Spain will proudly host the 2026 CISM World Military Mountain bike Championship. Together with the 2027 Military World Games, where mountain bike will also feature, the outlook for cycling within CISM is exceptionally strong. Cycling is once again firmly positioned on the CISM calendar.

(Source: CISM Headquarters - Pictures: Armée du Luxembourg and Grand-Ducal Cycling Photography)