The world of cross-country mountain biking is on the cusp of a new season, with theXC World Cup set to kick off this weekend in Brazil. As the athletes prepare to take to the tracks, a controversy has been brewing over the traditional 5-rider podiums. More than 120 riders, including Nino Schurter and Kate Courtney, have signed a letter addressed to Warner Bros. Discovery, urging the company to reconsider its decision to reduce the number of podiums from 5 to 3.
The Controversy Surrounding Podiums
• The current broadcasters of XC racing, Warner Bros. Discovery, have announced a price hike in its monthly subscription from £6.99 a month to £30.99 for those wanting to watch mountain biking in 2025. • The company has also reduced the post-race podiums from 5 to 3 riders, citing the need to conform to the norms of other sports. • The decision has been met with strong opposition from the athletes, who argue that the 5-rider podium has been a cornerstone of the sport since its inception in the 1990s.
The Statement
The full statement, signed by over 120 riders, argues that the 5-rider podium has provided countless opportunities for riders and teams to showcase their sponsors on live TV. It claims that Warner Bros. Discovery’s decision to reduce the size of the podiums is a misguided attempt to conform to the norms of other sports, rather than a genuine attempt to improve the sport.
We have been ignored and are left without a voice as the future of our sport changes. This is our sport and we won’t let conformity strip away its character! We demand the 5 rider podium in 2025!
The signers of the statement, which includes numerous World Series teams, argue that the decision to reduce the number of podiums is a step in the wrong direction. They claim that the 5-rider podium has added value and depth to the sport, and has given riders more opportunities to shine in the spotlight.
Key Points
• The 5-rider podium has been a cornerstone of XC racing since its inception in the 1990s. • The decision to reduce the number of podiums to 3 riders has been met with strong opposition from the athletes. • Warner Bros. Discovery’s decision to conform to the norms of other sports has been criticized by the athletes. • The 5-rider podium has provided countless opportunities for riders and teams to showcase their sponsors on live TV.
What’s at Stake
• The future of the sport: The decision to reduce the number of podiums could have a significant impact on the future of XC racing. • The character of the sport: The athletes argue that conforming to the norms of other sports would strip away the unique character of XC racing. • The exposure of riders and teams: The 5-rider podium has provided riders and teams with a platform to showcase their sponsors and gain exposure. • The paywall: The move to put XC and DH racing behind an even bigger paywall has already left fans with a sour taste in their mouth.
What’s Next?
• The XC World Cup season opener takes place this weekend in Brazil. • The season will feature two rounds at Araxá, with XCC and XCO races taking place over the weekend. • The athletes are calling on Warner Bros. Discovery to reconsider its decision and reinstate the traditional 5-rider podiums.
| Q&A with the Athletes | |
| Q: What inspired you to sign the statement? | Athlete 1: The decision to reduce the number of podiums was a huge blow to our sport, and we felt that we had to speak out against it. |
| Q: What do you hope to achieve with the statement? | Athlete 2: We hope to get Warner Bros. We also hope to make it clear that we will not go down without a fight in the face of conformity. |
Highlights from the Statement
- • The 5-rider podium has been a cornerstone of XC racing since its inception in the 1990s.
- • The decision to reduce the number of podiums to 3 riders has been met with strong opposition from the athletes.
- • Warner Bros.
- • The 5-rider podium has provided countless opportunities for riders and teams to showcase their sponsors on live TV.
