Forster just a little short of the podium
Lars Forster fought for the podium at the XCO World Cup in Val di Sole (Ita) right up to the last lap, but narrowly missed out on eighth place in a closely fought race by 15 seconds. Alessandra Keller in tenth and Mathias Flückiger in twelfth showed solid performances, but were unable to reach their full potential.
Two-time European champion Lars Forster impressed with an extremely strong start periode in which he quickly made up for his poor starting position. At one point, the 30-year-old was even in third position. However, Forster had to reduce the speed a little at the halfway point of the race and lost a few positions before he was able to speed up again at the end of the race and just missed out on the podium: “I felt very strong today. After a little dip in the middle, I was able to turn up the heat again at the end. I’m happy with 8th place.”
Keller and Flückiger solid
Alessandra Keller and Mathias Flückiger finished 10th and 12th respectively, and neither of them were completely satisfied. Keller’s analysis was clear: “Top 10 was all that was possible today. Of course I was hoping for more, but a place in the top 10 is still good and gives important World Cup points.” Meanwhile, national champion Flückiger was disappointed shortly after the race: “That’s not what I was hoping for. I’m still looking for my top shape. Nevertheless, I’m motivated for next week and the home World Cup in Crans Montana. Next week, next chance!”
Upward trend for Albin, disappointment for Wiedmann
At the same time, Vital Albin was delighted with his pleasing upward trend. After an excellent start, the 25-year-old from Graubünden had to slow down a little. In the end, Albin finished in 36th place and thus took a big step back towards the extended world elite.
U23 rider Luke Wiedmann was disappointed after a strong last few weeks. Wiedmann did not make it past 17th place.
Highly motivated for the home World Cup
The Swiss home World Cup will take place next weekend in Crans Montana (VS). The entire Thömus maxon team is extremely motivated to compete and shine in front of a home crowd.