Brian Cookson, the president of the UCI, keeps his word. It puts world cycling on the path to reform. The UCI and the various stakeholders in professional road cycling were brought together for a two-day seminar in Barcelona. Two days of discussions around the four guiding principles of the reform approved by the steering committee of the International Cycling Union: credibility, globalization, popularity with fans and strengthening of the pyramid. On the crucial question of events, it was notably decided that the existing calendar would serve as a basis, “but with the possibility of strategic growth to further increase the interest of the season”. Furthermore, stability will be reinforced by recording current UCI WorldTour events for an initial period of three years (2017 to 2019). Finally, a “Professional Calendar” working group will be formed. Placed under the responsibility of the UCI and comprising two representatives from the AIGCP (teams) and two from the AIOCC (organizers), as well as an observer representing the riders, its mission will be to optimize cooperation between the parties. stakeholders and advise the Professional Cycling Council on the UCI WorldTour calendar.
— Published on December 9, 2015
