For the first time in the history of enduro mountain bike racing, UCI jerseys and medals were on offer at the 2019 Trophy of Nations in Finale Ligure, Italy. The prestige of the awards was reflected in the intensity of the racing on display on Finale’s iconic trails. Riders represented their countries and worked together in teams of three to vie for gold across five stages of racing.
24 different nationalities competed out in front of thousands of fans who lined the track to cheer on their home nations. In the men’s competition, the much-hyped French team's hopes were dashed when Florian Nicolai (Canyon Factory Racing) flatted on the very first stage.
Team USA put the hammer down straight from the start gate, and the theme was continued throughout the race - they proved untouchable. The winning team of Richie Rude, Shawn Neer and Cody Kelley rode into the finish arena to a hero’s welcome, securing their place in the history books.
The perfect end to Isabeau Courdurier's perfect season. The perfect end to Isabeau Courdurier's perfect season.
In the women’s race the times were tighter. Going into the fifth and final stage of the day, Team Great Britain led Team France by just under six seconds. The French combination of Isabeau Courdurier, Morgane Charre and Melanie Pugin proved too strong for the Brits who had to settle for second place.
