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Good money, no team tactics and cute dogs: the rise of pro cycling freelancers

(www.theguardian.com)
30 points PaulHoule | 1 comments | 22 Oct 24 02:53 UTC | HN request time: 0.22s | source
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propter_hoc ◴[22 Oct 24 03:59 UTC] No.41911063[source]▶
The difference, from the article, seems to be that the European teams are sponsored at the organization level, and pay the riders a salary, but the gravel riders are solo athletes, so they don't get a salary but can get sponsorships directly. Makes sense if you're up for the pressure of being an influencer.
replies(3): >>41911685 #>>41911867 #>>41912274 #
1. PeterStuer ◴[22 Oct 24 08:18 UTC] No.41912274[source]▶
The narrower and vegetation lined winding paths typical in gravel decrease the potential benefits of teamwork. So a top racer does not need a team of servants to ride him to the final. The single day events without having team cars following on trac and extensive long on-tour medical/logistic staff for a whole team, non of which the 'servants' would be able to afford.