‘There are no race radios, because any kind of organisation would be too normal’: The World Championships road races are joyously anarchic, that’s why we love them

The World Championships Road Races are a wildly anarchic event, exactly what makes them so beloved. Each year, the best cyclists from across the globe congregate in a city they may not be familiar with, and for an extraordinarily long distance, they race against one another. They do not ride for their usual trade teams, but rather, they compete as part of national teams, leading to some unique combinations and squads.

The peloton is massive, with differing numbers of riders permitted by each country. And crucially, there are no race radios; any form of organization would be too conventional. This lack of structure generates an incredibly laid-back atmosphere, no matter where the World Championships take place. This year, the event is set to take place in Montréal, Canada, which is slightly more familiar due to the men's WorldTour race, the Grand Prix de Montréal, that also uses a similar circuit. However, no assumptions can be made when the UCI’s flagship event arrives in town.

This year's route is challenging, though not as brutal as the one experienced in Rwanda last season. Consequently, the range of potential winners is quite broad, from Isaac del Toro to Wout van Aert for the men, and Demi Vollering to Cédrine Kerbaol for the women. There is also potential for someone who hasn't been considered yet to emerge victorious, adding to the excitement and unpredictability of the event.

The prelude to the elite races includes junior and under-23 competitions, offering a chance to spot rising stars. This broader scale provides a fresh and dynamic environment, unlike the regular one. The men’s race is further complicated by the absence of Tadej Pogačar. While his absence is felt, it also leads to a more open race, allowing other favorites to shine.

With the Slovenian cyclist not able to lead from the front, other contenders may attempt to mimic his lead. However, the outcome remains uncertain until the races are completed. Similarly, the women's race will be 180km, with several top names eager to rectify past misses. Their quest for victory could be career-defining. For instance, Demi Vollering, Elisa Longo Borghini, and Kasia Niewiadoma have all finished in the top 10 multiple times, making any win a defining moment in their careers.

While all road races are thrilling, I harbor a secret hope that both the elite men’s and women’s events will produce unexpected winners. I enjoy witnessing someone different in the rainbow bands. Regardless of the outcome, the anarchy is bound to make for excellent entertainment.