Lucinda Brand takes tight sprint victory at 2025 Exact Cross Essen -

A tactical start on a fast circuit

Unlike the earlier junior races, the women’s elite event unfolded at a measured tempo in the opening laps, with a large peloton looping across the fields of Essen. Belgian champion Marion Norbert Riberolle suffered a poor start, needing an early bike change that left her chasing, but she was soon able to rejoin the main group.

Denise Betsema of De Ceuster–Bouwpunt and Casasola of Crelan–Corendon were the first to animate the front, keeping the pace high but steady. Brand and Aniek van Alphen remained well positioned near the head of the race as the pack began to stretch. By the end of the first lap, Riberolle was 11 seconds behind, though the gaps were small enough for her to regain contact.

In the third lap, Brand decided it was time to test the field. The former world champion accelerated sharply, forcing the first real split. Casasola, Van Alphen and Hélène Clauzel followed, while Riberolle and Betsema chased a few seconds back. By lap four, the six strongest riders had regrouped, forming the definitive lead group.

Attacks come and go before the final lap

Riberolle hit the front soon after rejoining, trying to lift the pace, but her move failed to break the stalemate. Betsema then launched her own acceleration in the fifth lap, though again without success. It was Brand who finally managed to draw out the key selection, forcing a gap with Casasola and Van Alphen as the trio opened a small lead over their chasers.

Behind them, Riberolle, Clauzel and Betsema worked together to bridge across, bringing the race back together at the start of the penultimate lap. Just as the group reformed, Van Alphen suffered a puncture, losing time as she headed to the pits. Casasola seized the opportunity to attack, but Brand was quick to react, shadowing her every move as the rest of the leaders fought to reconnect.

By the time the bell rang for the final lap, six riders were back together: Brand, Casasola, Van Alphen, Betsema, Clauzel and Riberolle.

Brand seals the win in the final metres

Casasola tried again over the barriers, hoping to force a small gap before the sprint, but Brand countered decisively. The two entered the finishing straight side by side, with the Italian leading out. Brand launched her sprint from second wheel and surged past in the closing metres to take the win, her second in three days and another sign that she has quickly rediscovered her top form.

Casasola finished second after a strong showing, with her Crelan–Corendon teammate Riberolle rounding out the podium.

“It was a fast, tactical race,” Brand said afterwards. “I knew positioning was crucial, especially on such a short finishing straight. Sara was really strong today, but I felt confident in my sprint. It’s great to start the season with two wins and to feel this good on the bike again.”