'I think it’s just disrespectful' – Controversy at European Cyclo-cross Championships as Luxembourg files complaint over relegation

Luxembourg's cycling federation has lodged a complaint after its rider, Marie Schreiber, was demoted from first to second place at the European Cyclo-cross Championships. Schreiber, a 23-year-old cyclist, had crossed the finish line ahead of Dutchwoman Lucinda Brand, but was later deemed to have irregularly sprinted by the UCI commissaires, resulting in Brand being awarded the European title.

In response, Schreiber refused to participate in the podium ceremony, calling the decision "disrespectful." The Fédération du Sport Cycliste Luxembourgeois (FSCL) has since complained to the race organizer, the Union Européenne de Cyclisme (UEC), urging a reevaluation of the race standings based on the order in which riders crossed the finish line.

While the decision ultimately lies with the UCI, Schreiber maintains that she did nothing wrong and that the commissaires' decision is unjust. She explained that the sprint happened after 50 minutes of intense racing and that she moved slightly to the left, which may have contributed to the incident. Despite the disagreement, Schreiber acknowledged that Brand had no way to pass her and that the decision was ultimately made by the commissaires.

Schreiber's coach, Sanne Cant, criticized the reaction as "ridiculous," stating that the decision should have been made based on the narrowest margin possible. Brand's second European title came in 2021, while Schreiber's third-place finish was claimed by Ceylin del Carmen Alvarado.