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Jasper Stuyven is the new European gravel champion

On home roads, Jasper claimed the first continental title as well as the Belgian national title. Will he race the UCI World Gravel Champioships next weekend?

Jasper Stuyven is the new European gravel champion

In his home town of Leuven, Jasper Stuyven once again raised his arms to the sky, winning the historic first edition of the European gravel championships. The victory also earned him the title of Belgian national champion.

Jasper, who raced on a beautiful Trek Domane, overcame his competitors thanks to an excellent performance that allowed him to cross the finish line alone. Behind him, compatriot Merlier (Soudal-QuickStep) finished at 1’21”, while German Paul Voss was third.

Today, Stuyven was simply the strongest. On the gravel roads around his hometown, Jasper showed a great form and on the last lap he made the decisive move, attacking and building up the solid lead with which he arrived at the finish.

He beat Tim Merlier in second, Paul Voss in third and 2022 World Gravel Champion Gianni Vermeersch in fouth place.

In the women's race Australian Tiffany Cromwell was first.

After a series of encouraging placements and gutsy rides, Jasper is back on the top step of the podium!

Stuyven's said afterwards, "Today is a special day. This victory, this title, is a great satisfaction. Winning in my region in front of my people, makes it even more memorable. I had the right feeling from the start, I felt I could make a difference today. I raced hearing cheers all along the way, it was really nice. Gravel races always bring so many hidden dangers, but I thought little about it and relied on my feelings. I only thought about pushing, avoiding risks and always keeping the lead. I raced waiting for the right moment. When I realised that the others were tired, I went all in and attacked. Few calculations and a lot of grit. I had a plan and I made in happen in the best possible way. I am very happy."

"I missed the victory and I was waiting for it, I won’t hide it, but I never stopped fighting and believing that it would come sooner or later. This jersey is a great boost of confidence for the last races of the year. I still have a chance to make my mark and I don’t want to let it slip away. The World Gravel Championship? That wasn’t on the agenda, we’ll see this week if something will change. The first thought is to do well on the road with my Lidl-Trek, the rest I will evaluate later."

Link to 2023 2023 UEC Gravel European Championships Results: https://www.acn-timing.com/?lng=FR#/events/2158113692084886/ctx/20231001_gravel/cms/GRAVEL

On home roads, Jasper claimed the first continental title as well as the Belgian national title.