2023-07-29 09:00:31
Selected for the UCI Worlds on the Glasgow track (August 3-13), Rayan Helal, 24, talks regarding his preparation and his feelings as the competition approaches.
You have won a Grand Prix in Hyères. Is it important to win before starting preparation for the Worlds?
The challenge is not the same as a World Cup or a championship, but it also allows you to chain keirins and high-level matches to begin good preparation for the world championships in Glasgow.
How do you feel a few days before the start of the Worlds?
I feel good. The preparation went well. We did an internship in Hyères three weeks ago during which we were able to ramp up. From now on, we are increasing the juice and we are concentrating headlong on the world championship.
What difference does it make that the speed tournament is spread over three days?
It will be the Olympic format that I have already experienced at the Tokyo Games. This is another challenge. It will eventually be quite tense. Fatigue management will be different compared to an event that would have been spread over two days.
“Including different disciplines at the Worlds brings a big gain in visibility”
Did the European Championships confirm you in the European and world hierarchy?
We have set goals this season and the European Championship was one of them. I was able to achieve what I wanted so it delights me. I also got closer on other aspects, especially in terms of performance. I was quite satisfied with the championship and with my Nations Cup campaign. We will see what it will give to the World Championships.
What do these Worlds bring together several disciplines over 10 days?
This brings a big gain in visibility. This exhibition will allow the general public to learn more regarding track cycling or by other people who are passionate regarding cycling but do not really know the track. It’s nice to rub shoulders with other disciplines such as road cycling or BMX. We share the championship with para-cycling on track. It’s unprecedented. There is no such format at the Games. We’re going to swap our tests. It will be something new.
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