British Cycling Unveils Powerful Team for 2024 UCI Mountain Bike World Championships

As the countdown to the 2024 UCI Mountain Bike World Championships begins, British Cycling has unveiled a formidable 39-member squad ready to compete in Andorra from August 28 to September 1. This prestigious event will see elite riders from around the globe showcase their skills across various disciplines, including cross-country Olympic (XCO), cross-country short track (XCC), and downhill racing, all set against the stunning backdrop of Pal Arinsal. Leading the British charge is two-time Olympic champion Tom Pidcock, who brings not only his experience but also the weight of expectation following his recent Olympic gold medal in Paris. At just 25 years old, Pidcock is not only a reigning world champion but also a key figure in a robust cross-country team that is eager to don the coveted rainbow jersey once again. Joining Pidcock in the elite men's category are fellow Olympian Charlie Aldridge and national XCO champion Cameron Orr, both of whom will be looking to make a significant impact on the international stage. The depth of talent does not stop there; the elite men’s category also features reigning world champion Charlie Hatton, who is determined to defend his title after a successful season that includes a national championship silver and a national series victory. In addition to Hatton, the line-up boasts last year’s bronze medallist Laurie Greenland, who has his eyes firmly set on the top spot this time around. Other notable names include previous world champions like Reece Wilson and Danny Hart, as well as multiple national champion Matt Walker. They will be joined by Bernard Kerr, who has enjoyed a standout season, securing podium finishes at the prestigious Red Bull Hardline events. Joe Breeden and Greg Williamson round out a compelling elite men's roster. On the women’s side, Evie Richards, the 2021 world champion, is back with a point to prove as she aims to reclaim her former glory. She will be joined by current national champion Annie Last, who has a wealth of experience including a silver medal from the 2017 World Championships. Additionally, Scottish national champion Isla Short will also take to the start line in a bid for success. In the elite women’s downhill category, five-time world medallist Tahnee Seagrave is expected to be a strong contender, having already made her mark on several World Cup podiums this season. She will be flanked by national champion Hattie Harnden, who has also been impressive in the enduro category, and Louise-Anna Ferguson, who finished a commendable fourth at the World Championships last year. The British squad also includes a range of emerging talent across the junior and under-23 categories, with athletes like Joseph Blackmore and Ella Maclean-Howell looking to make their mark. Fans of mountain biking will be delighted to know that the BBC will provide live coverage of the elite men’s and women’s events, streamed on iPlayer and the BBC Sport website. While specific times are yet to be confirmed, the anticipation is already building as Britain’s best prepare to battle it out for world titles in Andorra. As the event draws nearer, the cycling community waits with bated breath to see if this talented British squad can add to their legacy on the world stage.