First World Cup Podium for Felipe in Dublin!

Felipe Orts achieved a new milestone this past weekend! For the first time in his career, he stood on the podium of a World Cup race. In Dublin, he was part of a lead group of six riders going into the final lap. In a nail-biting finale, he pushed through to secure third place. Felipe now ranks sixth in the overall standings.

No time for Guinness at the Temple Bar, as the cyclocross riders competed outside the city center. Thanks to the sun and wind, the course remained relatively dry and fast. Felipe started from the front row and was among the first riders entering the field. Although briefly delayed by a crash at the barriers, he quickly returned to the front of the race.

Six riders stood out in Ireland: Michael Vanthourenhout, Eli Iserbyt, Joran Wyseure, Pim Ronhaar, Toon Aerts, and Felipe. Several riders attempted attacks, but ultimately, the group of six entered the final lap together. Felipe gambled by switching to Rhino tires (with a coarse tread), allowing him to climb into the top three.

Michael Vanthourenhout rewarded himself with a stunning victory, with Toon Aerts sprinting past Felipe for second place. Our Spanish team leader now moves up to sixth in the World Cup standings. This podium finish marks another achieved goal in what has already been a highly successful season.

Daan Soete also lined up in Dublin. Starting from further back, he narrowly missed connecting with the leading group. He ultimately finished 18th, earning 44 UCI points—a significant boost for him. Previously at just 14 points due to bad luck, this result represents a major leap in his UCI ranking. “I didn’t have my best legs of the past weeks. On a course that suits me quite well, I found that a bit disappointing. Now, 10 days of endurance training in Sardinia will do me good after what has been an intense period,” he reflected.

Photos: Gaëtan Flamme