Anger from Eli Iserbyt’s team after UCI suspension: “The consequences are really far reaching”

Belgian cyclocross star Eli Iserbyt, the reigning national champion and winner of 16 World Cup events, has had a turbulent week following a controversial incident with Dutch rider Ryan Kamp at the Beringen Cross. Just days after the collision, Iserbyt once again spoke out, reflecting on the moment that saw him suspended for three races and fined 2,500 Swiss francs by the UCI.

The drama unfolded last Saturday when Kamp attempted his now infamous overtake on Iserbyt. The move resulted in a shoulder-to-shoulder collision, with both riders crashing to the ground. Iserbyt, who struck a post, was visibly frustrated and, in a moment of anger, took matters into his own hands by kicking Kamp’s bike, damaging the derailleur. This forced Kamp to walk to the material zone, while Iserbyt was disqualified soon after.

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In the days following the incident, Iserbyt expressed his regret during an interview with Het Laatste Nieuws. “I simply saw that it was a big mistake on my part. It was an unguarded moment, a wild reaction. That really shouldn't happen during such a sporting event, certainly not as a Belgian champion. I really do realise that. The apologies have also been made to Ryan, to the team, and also to the organisation.”

Former cyclocross champion Bart Wellens had initially called for harsher sanctions, stating, “To be honest, I think there will be a sequel to this. A disqualification is not enough, the UCI will have to send a signal.” A week later, the UCI did just that, handing down the three-race suspension.

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The consequences of Iserbyt’s suspension extend beyond just the missed races. His team, Pauwels Sauzen-Bingoal, has expressed frustration over the long-term impact. Team manager Jurgen Mettepenningen was particularly vocal about how missing the upcoming cross in Ruddervoorde will severely hinder Iserbyt's chances in the Superprestige series. “You can't make up for the deficit of Ruddervoorde. His Superprestige ranking is already over. The consequences of that suspension are really far-reaching,” Mettepenningen remarked.

With Iserbyt sidelined and his hopes for the Superprestige title dashed, it’s been a whirlwind week for the Belgian champion, and one he is surely eager to move past as he looks to refocus on his future in the sport.