One DH World Cup down in Maribor!
This unprecedented start to the season saw all riders compete today, Friday, for the first of two finals on Slovenian soil this weekend.
And on their return to World Cup racing, the top COMMENCAL Muc-Off  team riders have once again shown that they mean serious business in such difficult conditions, achieving Team of the Day and first place in the overall team competition, thanks to 3 podiums!

Although the rain stopped for the race, the track proved to be more difficult to grasp than in qualifying as there was a huge lack of grip in many parts.
In turn, this meant choice of tyres was crucial come the race run. Both Rémi Thirion and Thibault Daprela opted for full mud tyres and their choice was decisive!
Indeed, starting last, Thibaut Daprela took the 3rd step on the podium by putting down a run right on his limits! Close to falling several times he managed to stay on the bike and keep his speed, coming in 3rd in his first WC race in the Elite Men’s category! impressive!

As for Rémi Thirion, once again he gave everyone a masterclass in riding mud! Five days after his bronze medal at the World Championships he’s backed it up with another strong performance in treacherous conditions.
A slight improvement on last week, he took second place today, just two seconds from victory! Can he move up one more place on Sunday?
Team Dorval also had a good first round with a top 10 for Baptiste Pierron and 16th place for Benoit Coulanges. Finally, Hugo Frixtalon came 24th.

As in Leogang, Myriam Nicole took another 2nd place like last week in Maribor! In her first World Cup of the season she was beaten by Marine Cabirou and she’ll be keen to turn the tide in the second round on Sunday. Two female Dorval Team riders, Monika Hrastnik and Camille Balanche took 5th and 8th places. A great podium for Monika and we’re sure the new World Champ will want to be back up there on Sunday.

In Junior Men, Daniel Slack also bagged another 2nd after his silver medal at World Championships last week! Tom Guillo came 22nd today and although he was confident after qualifying well, Pau Menoyo unfortunately crashed and finished 23rd.

See you in two days for the 2nd round of this first World Cup 'stage' of the season!

Photos : ©andyvathis - @commmencal_mucoff