Get ready for an exciting cyclo-cross spectacle as the USA Cycling team gears up for the 2026 UCI Cyclo-cross World Championships! But here's where it gets controversial... with just one elite male rider representing the USA.
A Nation's Pride on the Line
The American cycling community is buzzing with anticipation as USA Cycling announces its 23-rider team for the upcoming UCI Cyclo-cross World Championships, set to take place in Hulst, The Netherlands, from January 30 to February 1. However, the selection has sparked some debate, as only one elite male rider, Pan American champion Andrew Strohmeyer, will be donning the stars and stripes. US national champion Eric Brunner has decided to end his cyclo-cross season early to focus on road preparations, leaving many fans wondering about the implications for the USA's performance.
The Elite Men's Category
Andrew Strohmeyer, riding for CXD / Trek Bikes, will be the sole representative for the USA in the elite men's category. Strohmeyer's Pan American title showcases his prowess, but the question remains: can he carry the weight of a nation's expectations on his shoulders?
The Elite Women's Category
Lizzy Gunsalus of CCB Racing p/b Levine Law Group and Anna Megale of Competitive Edge Racing will be flying the flag for the USA in the elite women's category. With their experience and talent, they aim to make a strong showing on the world stage.
The Rising Stars: U23 and Junior Categories
The USA Cycling team also boasts an impressive lineup of young talent in the U23 and junior categories. In the U23 men's category, Calvin Conaway (Midwest NXT), Henry Coote (Competitive Edge Racing), and Ryan Drummond (Competitive Edge Racing) will be looking to make their mark.
The U23 women's category features a strong contingent from Competitive Edge Racing, including Mia Aseltine, Lidia Cusack (also riding for CXD / Trek Bikes), Vida Lopez de San Roman (Trinity Racing), Kaya Musgrave (Pure Energy Drink / Haro Bikes by Corego), Alyssa Sarkisov, and Katherine Sarkisov (both from CXD / Trek Bikes), and Lyllie Sonnemann (CXD / Trek Bikes).
In the junior men's category, Ethan Brown (Midwest NXT), Matthew Crabbe, Jacob Hines, and Noah Scholnick (all from FinKraft Junior Cycling Team), and Porter Melvin (Forward Endurance) will be representing the USA.
The junior women's category includes Tessa Beebe (Byrds Cycling), Graden Daume (Team Stampede/Five Valley Velo), Aida Linton and Kira Mullins (both from Bear National CX), and Ada Watson (CXD / Trek Bikes).
And This is the Part Most People Miss...
While the focus is often on the elite categories, the U23 and junior riders are the future of USA Cycling. Their performances at the UCI Cyclo-cross World Championships could shape the direction of American cyclo-cross for years to come.
So, as we eagerly await the start of the championships, let's discuss: Do you think the USA Cycling team has what it takes to make a strong showing, despite the limited elite male representation? What are your predictions for the U23 and junior categories? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!
