Track Cycling's Momentous Shift: Champions League to World Cup

Track cycling's Champions League is discontinued after four years. UCI and Warner Bros. Discovery will focus on a revitalized Track Nations Cup, turning into a Track World Cup by 2026. This strategic shift aims to enhance popularity leading to 2028 Olympics, despite the League's unique fan engagement efforts.

Track cycling's Champions League will no longer continue, marking an end to the initiative hailed as an innovative approach to attract new fans. The UCI and Warner Bros. Discovery announced the last season will be in 2024, shifting focus to the Track Nations Cup, which will become the Track World Cup by 2026.

Warner Bros. Discovery, which initially committed to an eight-year partnership, is redefining its involvement. The UCI president, David Lappartient, expressed optimism about the sport's growing popularity, especially looking forward to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Despite the Champions League's appeal, ticket sales were inconsistent across venues.

The reformed UCI Track World Cup will feature three rounds with Olympic and elimination events, aiming to sustain public interest. This change is part of the qualification for the world championships and the Olympics. Hosts for future editions are currently being selected, heralding a new chapter for track cycling.

(With inputs from agencies.)