Federov wins the U23 Road Race in wet conditions in Wollongong. Image: Sirotti.
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Kazakhstan’s Yevgeniy Federov Wins Thrilling U23 Road Race In The Wet

Yevgeniy Federov has won the 2022 Under 23 World Championship Road Race, the Kazhakstan rider was the ultimate victor after a thrilling two-man sprint to the line in abysmal conditions in Wollongong.

Speaking from the podium – through his interpreter Alexander Vinokourov – Federov said the climbs were difficult, particularly for a rider who doesn’t consider himself a strong climber.

“He knew if he passed the climb and had the chance to go to the finish line, one, two, three or more times he could do it,” he said. ”He is very happy, for the team but also for himself,” Vinokourov added.

Riders make their way up one of the tough suburban climbs on the U23 Road Race course. Image: Sirotti

Heavy Rain & Slippery Roads

Raced in heavy rain and slippery conditions from the start, the U23 event provided thrilling, heart-in-mouth action in its entirety. If you can watch a video of it – and we’d suggest the UCI channel on YouTube – we strongly recommend checking it out!

Speaking later – after he had dried out and warmed up – Federov said “I don’t feel anything other than general tiredness.”

Discussing the final lap and final sprint, he said the two riders – himself and silver medal winner Mathias Vacek (CZE) worked well together. 

“With 300 to go I decide to sprint – I thought ‘it’s now or never, and I was the strongest one,” Federov said through an interpreter.

“Its never easy to race in weather like that, especially with slippery roads and every one fighting for position,” he continued.

Asked about his future plans, he said “for the next year I am aiming to ride another Grand Tour, as I did at the Vuelta this year. And ride more one-day races.”

2022 UCI U23 Men’s Road Race Top 3

1:Yevgeniy Federov (KAZ)

2: Mathias Vacek (CZE)

3: Soren Waerenskjold (NOR)

Today’s World Championships Coverage Is Presented by Our Partners Wests Illawarra

Winner Yevgeniy Fedorov, Mathias Vacek and Soren Waerenskjold on the podium in Wollongong. Image: Sirotti.

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