Cyclo-cross has been talked about for years and the UCI has been working hard to get it included in the Winter Olympics. French publication L'Équipe reports that La Planche des Belles Filles has submitted its candidacy to host a cyclo-cross event at the 2030 Winter Olympics, which will be held in the French Alps.
Four new sports will be added to the 2030 Winter Games, and cyclo-cross is said to have a strong chance of being included. The discipline has the backing of UCI President David Lappartient, as well as former French Prime Minister and 2030 Winter Olympics Organizing Committee member Michel Barnier.
The race would take place on La Planche des Belles Filles, a frequent feature of the Tour de France routes. L'Équipe claims to have seen the application document, which promises to offer an "unforgettable venue" that "guarantees a popular image for the Games."
The city of Besançon has also expressed interest in hosting the cyclo-cross race, but Lucie Lefèvre – wife of former cyclo-cross racer Steve Chainel and leader of the La Planche des Belles Filles project – seems confident of her bid. “We are four hours’ drive from Belgium and the Netherlands, where the cyclo-cross culture is very strong. We know how to organize it – it will be a real party,” she said.
