The UCI Gravel World Championships in Maastricht, Netherlands, sparked a heated debate: Is this even gravel?
The 2025 edition showcased a unique course, blurring the lines between a road race and an off-road adventure. But here's where it gets controversial: the 'gravel' sectors were more like smooth, hard-packed paths, leaving riders and fans divided. Was it truly a gravel race, or something else entirely?
As riders prepared for the challenge, the pits buzzed with a fascinating array of bike setups. With no clear consensus on the ideal bike, the event became a showcase of innovation. Riders experimented with various tire choices, from 35 mm semi-slicks to 2.2-inch mountain bike tires, and gear setups ranging from road to full MTB groupsets. And this is the part most people miss: the absence of strict regulations allowed for a creative explosion, with unreleased prototypes and personal modifications on full display.
Among the unique setups, unreleased tires from Pirelli and Continental caught the eye, along with a potential new gravel platform from Merida. These cutting-edge components added to the intrigue of the race, leaving everyone wondering: what's the perfect setup for this unconventional course?
The UCI Gravel World Championships in Maastricht challenged traditional notions of gravel racing. It begs the question: should gravel races embrace a broader definition of 'gravel' to accommodate diverse courses? Or is there a risk of diluting the essence of the sport? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
