In 2023, the Cyclocross World Cup visited the Spanish city of Benidorm for the first time. Now, three years later, the race has established itself as one of the must-stop events on the world competition calendar, finding in the sunny Valencian city a setting different from the rest of the races, adding variety to the competition.

 
Course

As in previous editions, the Benidorm circuit takes place in the urban parks of Foietes and El Moralet and runs along several gravel paths. This time, however, two important new features are introduced: a new finish line, located uphill and reached after a flight of stairs, and a sand pit over 100 meters long located where the old finish line used to be, which will add difficulty to an otherwise very fast circuit.

 
Women’s race favorites

Once again, Lucinda Brand (1200) is the clear favorite for the women’s race. Ceylijn del Carmen Alvarado (1200), Inge Van Der Heijden (1000), Aniek Van Alphen (400), Shirin Van Anrooij (800), Zoe Backstedt (1000), Amandine Fouquenet (400) and Blanka Vas (1000) are also notable riders.

 
Men’s race favorites

The Dutch national coach has not yet confirmed whether Mathieu Van Der Poel (1200) will take part in the race, but the world champion appears on the provisional start list and, if he races, he will be the overwhelming favorite. Thibau Nys (1000), Tibor del Grosso (400), Michael Vanthourenthout (1200), Toon Aerts (800), Niels Vandeputte (800), Felipe Orts (600), Cameron Mason (400) and Joris Nieuwenhuis (600) also have cards to play, especially if Van Der Poel ultimately does not compete.

 
Photo: © UCI Cyclo-cross World Cup