Spectator misconduct

Cycling has always been known for creating a close connection between spectators and riders, which sets it apart from many other sports disciplines where the distance to the athletes is more pronounced. This intimate experience is a crucial part of the fascination when we, as passionate enthusiasts, witness cycling races live. It's an indescribable feeling to see our cycling heroes race by within reach. But unfortunately, this experience is threatened by unacceptable behavior from some spectators. Instead of creating an environment where spectators and riders can share the joy of the sport, there seems to be an unfortunate trend where some spectators appear to be present not to celebrate the sport, but rather to disrupt the riders they may not support. This negative trend poses a threat to the unique connection between spectators and cycling today.

It honestly saddens me to read about this behavior among spectators. Why do some spectators choose to throw beer—or even urine—as was the case during the Cyclocross World Cup in Hulst earlier this year, where favorite Mathieu van der Poel was the target? Also, in Paris-Roubaix, Mathieu van der Poel experienced yet another unpleasant incident when an unhappy spectator threw a cycling cap at his wheel, just as he passed her on a cobblestone stretch at high speed. Unfortunately, this is not the first time it has happened. Previously, riders like Chris Froome have also experienced similar treatment. We have also witnessed spectators deliberately throwing tacks or pouring oil onto the road, with the intention of sabotaging the race or preventing specific riders from winning. Such actions are completely unacceptable as they pose a serious danger of crashes and potentially severe injuries to the riders involved.

"It should be a place for community, experiences, and camaraderie, where one channels their energy into cheering for favorites rather than sabotaging the riders they may not support."

While I sense that these occurrences have intensified over the past few years, this reckless behavior from spectators is by no means a new phenomenon, as illustrated by an example from Rolf Sørensen's active cycling career, where he received a water bottle from a spectator that, instead of a refreshing drink, was filled with mustard—a undoubtedly foolish and malicious act. In cycling, it is crucial to maintain a respectful atmosphere where spectators and riders can share the joy of the sport. It should be a place for community, experiences, and camaraderie, where one channels their energy into cheering for favorites rather than sabotaging riders they may not support. Imagine being a dedicated cyclist preparing to participate in a race where cycling represents more than just a hobby—it's your passion and vocation. You have meticulously prepared and look forward to competing. But beyond the usual excitement of starting the race, there is also a concern and underlying uncertainty about what awaits you today. Could it be beer, urine, jeers, or even derogatory remarks?

"A fundamental question arises: Is it even possible to throw urine without getting it on one's own fingers?"

Here I can't help but wonder what goes on inside the mind of a person who finds joy in throwing urine. How do they prepare, exactly? Do they bring out their best thermos, fill it with urine, make sure the lid is securely fastened, and toss it into their backpack, ready to take to a cycling race? Upon arrival at the race, the person takes out their thermos and eagerly waits to throw urine at a specific rider. It requires precision not to hit innocent spectators as well. A fundamental question arises: Is it even possible to throw urine at a rider without getting it on one's own fingers? And most importantly, why is there not a single moment in this whole preparation process where the person stops and thinks, "What on earth am I doing?" and realizes how pathetic it is? It's almost unbelievable that some people feel entitled to behave so idiotically.

It's time to return to the love of the sport, let go of the negative trends, and move away from actions that threaten to ruin the unique atmosphere of cycling races. Let's create an environment together where spectators and riders can share the passion and experience the genuine joy of being part of the cycling community.

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