US Gravel Team Heads to UCI Worlds with Underdog Spirit & a Rider Seeking Stability
The United States is sending a team to the UCI Gravel World Championships this weekend, but it’s a squad built more on grit and potential than established gravel superstars or seasoned WorldTour veterans. Unlike teams from nations like the Netherlands, Belgium, and France, the US roster doesn’t boast a lineup of household names.
Only one rider from the US Gravel Nationals podium - Cole Davis - accepted an invitation to compete in this prestigious event.He’ll be joined by another wildcard, Justin McQuerry, who secured ninth place at the Highlands Gravel qualifier. Several othre riders auto-qualified through UCI Gravel World Series races, including Andrew Lydic (fifth at Gravel Adventure in Poland) and Ethan Overson (third at The Rad Dirt Fest).
!US Gravel Nationals 2025 elite men’s podium (L to R): Michael Garrison second,winner Bradyn Lange and Cole Davis third
(Image credit: SnowyMountain Photography)
However,Davis isn’t intimidated by the prospect of racing against former and current WorldTour riders like Tim Wellens,Romain Bardet,Gianni Vermeersch,Petr Vakoč,Tim Merlier,and Greg Van Avermaet. He believes experience doesn’t automatically equate to victory.
“I don’t think there’s anything to be intimidated by,” Davis stated. “These guys used to be WorldTour, but they’re just normal people. While their WorldTour status is obvious,there are so many other hidden gems of competition out there.”
A potential Farewell Tour & A Search for Stability
This UCI Gravel World Championships appearance could also serve as a pivotal moment in Davis’s career. He’s actively seeking a new team and, realistically, a full-time job if professional cycling doesn’t remain viable.
“I’m trying to figure things out right now,” davis explained to Cyclingnews. “I basically have to find some more financial stability if I wont to continue racing. And yeah, I’m currently in the job application process to become a regular, functioning adult in a month or two if I’m not able to find something.”
Davis emphasizes his versatility as a rider, highlighting his willingness to compete in various disciplines.He’s open to criteriums,gravel,and road racing – anything that allows him to continue pursuing his passion.
“I also think that I’m problably one of the most versatile riders in the country,” he said.”I love it all.Just any opportunity to continue riding bikes full-time. I’m up for anything. I want to stay racing my bike.”
Key Takeaways for the US Team:
* Underdog Status: The US team lacks the established pedigree of some European squads.
* davis as a Leader: Cole Davis, a Nationals podium finisher, is a key figure for the team.
* Versatility: Davis’s adaptability makes him a valuable asset.
* Career Crossroads: He’s navigating potential career changes alongside his racing ambitions.
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