The bikers are running out of leaders: Following the handover of the Swisscup from Andi Seeli, Armin Meier is already the third former road rider in a key mountain bike position. At Swiss Cycling, Sven Montgomery is responsible for grassroots sport and therefore for the mountain bikers. Until recently, the marathon series was managed by former "postman" and Tour de Romandie boss Richard Chassot.

Tubular tires = technical doping
This is just the beginning: in addition to the marathon series, the iXS Downhill Cup will soon also be ruled by roadies. The skinsuit will experience a revival this season. Whips will soon be banned by the regulations. Racers will not only have to carry a blood passport, but will also have to start with shaved legs. It goes without saying that studded tires will soon be considered technical doping.

Why did the ex-road pros take up cycling? It's obvious: they went through a tough team school, have trained themselves to be assertive and are used to following strict UCI regulations. These are good prerequisites for organizing a popular sporting event like a marathon race. Who wants to deal with the individual and anarchistic gang that competes in the Pizza Cup?

Asphalt for everyone
Mountain bikers will soon also notice how consistently the popular sport is being pushed by a former road pro. In 2018, he launched a program to asphalt the heavily used single trails throughout Switzerland. The trails shine indestructibly beautiful in deep black. Just like the pump track at the Swiss Cycling headquarters in Grenchen. This is sustainable and makes sense, as environmentalists can no longer complain about erosion.

It will set a precedent
Ride is also aware of future developments. The Gümmeler's seizure of power will set a precedent: Gian Simmen takes over the Engadin Ski Marathon. And Claudio Caluori will commentate on the Tour de France. That's a promise.