The effect of this is increased pressure on U.S. riders to grab top finishes and make their national team. Cross-Country racing in the U.S. will be different this season. It s now a two-part event, hopefully making it more telegenic and fun to watch. Plus, downhill has been moved to Sundays as the headlining event. There s never been a better reason to visit a race.
World cup racing no longer allows low-score dropping.
In the past, riders could drop their two low scores from the season, giving them a safety net for bad-luck days. This means downhillers are in for some surprises, and XC racers are going to very strategic in their pursuit of the overall title. We anticipate a stellar season, full of intense competition, huge crowds, unbelievable endurance and awesome action and that s just at the bars each night. What happens during the day is anyone s guess, but we are confident it ll be the best season of racing in years.