Justine Tonso secured a win in Race 1; Joris Ryf reaffirmed his outstanding form with another victory

Spa-Francorchamps (Belgium), Tuesday 29 August 2023 – Once again, Spa-Francorchamps plays host to the WES UCI E-MTB XC World Cup, amidst weather that began with clouds but gradually transformed into sunshine over the course of the laps.

WES Spa-Francorchamps Round Race 1 start

Set against a circuit enveloped by mountains, this place provided the perfect stage for electric bicycle races, marking WES’s resume following the UCI World Championships in Scotland.

Joris Ryf (Specialized)

In the morning’s Qualirace against the iconic Formula 1 track backdrop, Sofia Wiedenroth and Joris Ryf (Specialized) were the Raspini Pole Position winners, fully prepared to give their best in Race 1.

Joris Ryf and Sofia Wiedenroth (Specialized)

All eyes were on the start line, tense anticipation hanging in the air as everyone prepared to unleash their best. As the race began, Jérôme Gilloux (Lapierre Overvolt) and Antonia Daubermann (Advanced E-Racing) took hold of the Fassi Holeshot, the second fastest start this season for the German woman rider, after Monaco Race 2.

Jérôme Gilloux (Lapierre Overvolt) and Antonia Daubermann (Advanced E-Racing)

And so, the women’s race delivered an intriguing contest, with Wiedenroth leading for multiple laps with a seemingly assuring advantage.

Behind her, however, was the Reigning French Champion, Justine Tonso (Lapierre Overvolt), gradually narrowing the gap to seize control of Race 1 and claim victory.

Justine Tonso (Lapierre Overvolt)

“I felt very strong. I managed the gap to overtake Sofia (Wiedenroth) and win. This year at Spa I was much stronger than last year, because I was very sick during that weekend”, said the winner.

Daubermann crossed the finish line in third, trailed by Solène Bouissou (Team Oise Organisation) in fourth, while Celia Audoli (Monaco) secured the fifth spot.

Race 1 Women’s Podium

On the other hand, the Man’s battle unfolded with several overtakes. It witnessed as many as three leaders: Gilloux, Ryf, and the Italian Mirko Tabacchi (RDR Italia Factory). The latter encountered a rear wheel puncture during the second lap, thereby reducing his chances of clinching victory.

Thus, the race fight between the Frenchman and the recently crowned World Champ, who let everyone know his exceptional form by exchanging the race lead with “The Specialist” two times and securing another triumph in the series.

Joris Ryf (Specialized)

“I’m very happy to win my first race in Rainbow jersey and for sure it gives me more power. I really appreciated the track this year with the changes made from the last edition, so I felt very comfortable. Looking forward to tomorrow’s race”, said the Swiss.

Furthermore, Tabacchi maintained his position for second place, closely pursued by Gilloux on the podium’s third step.

Race 1 Men’s Podium

Securing fourth was Spanish Ismael Esteban Aguero (Logos Energia-BH), who completed an outstanding race despite the challenges of a demanding Qualirace where he even suffered a broken pedal during his timed lap. Rico Libesch (Advanced E-Racing), reigning German national Champ finished fifth.

Also, Théo Charmes (Team AOTL) and Michal Swárovský (PROOFY cycling team), Czech national Champ, suffered a puncture during lap 4.

However, Spa-Francorchamps Round isn’t over yet as tomorrow the action will return for Race 2.

Entry Lists, Race Live Timing and Results HERE
Download the photogallery HERE
WES Spa-Francorchamps Round Event Schedule and Race Maps HERE
Download this Press Release in PDF HERE