Matej Mohoric delivered a display of strength and technical skill to win the World Gravel Championship in Veneto, Italy. The Slovenian had an impressive performance, surpassing Florian Vermeersch and Connor Swift, who completed the podium.
The 167-kilometer race in Veneto was considerably more challenging than last year, featuring climbs in addition to the eagerly anticipated gravel roads.
Wout van Aert was one of the top favorites but was forced out of contention early on after suffering a flat tire and later crashing. As the race progressed through various sectors, the peloton split significantly, and the front group began to take shape. A selection was made with six riders in the lead, and from there, a trio emerged as the race exploded once again.
Matej Mohoric, Florian Vermeersch, and Connor Swift stood out at the front in the final 50 kilometers, with a significant lead over a chasing group consisting of Alejandro Valverde, Alessandro De Marchi, Paul Voss, and Keegan Swenson. Quinten Hermans and Sebastian Schweinberger joined the group, but it was a battle for minor positions.
However, it was a race of attrition. Swift was dropped 24 kilometers from the finish, and on another climb, Mohoric left Vermeersch behind 18 kilometers from the finish. It then became a time trial for both, with Mohoric slowly extending his lead.
The Slovenian didn’t let up. The final descent to the finish line provided quite a spectacle as he navigated tight corners, changing surfaces, even taking a spill at one point 3 kilometers from the finish. He was the strongest on the day and crossed the line to become the new World Champion. Florian Vermeersch and Connor Swift finished second and third on the day.
Results of the 2023 World Gravel Championship:
