Eli Iserbyt criticizes cyclocross sponsorship and athlete personalities

Former cyclocross professional Eli Iserbyt has raised concerns regarding the financial stability and media appeal of the sport. He argues that a growing wealth gap is emerging within the discipline, as sponsorship funds are increasingly concentrated among a small group of elite riders.

Iserbyt notes that sponsors prefer to invest higher amounts in athletes who appear frequently on television rather than distributing funds to a broader range of competitors. This trend has led to a diminishing middle class of riders, leaving many top-ten finishers struggling to secure employment.

Furthermore, the Belgian rider criticized the current generation of athletes for being too reserved. He suggested that many riders lack the strong personalities or willingness to engage in controversy necessary to attract public interest, particularly when major stars like Mathieu van der Poel, Wout van Aert, and Thibau Nys are absent from competition.