How did Gilbert, Tankink, Museeuw, and Roche fare in their own categories at the Gravel World Championship?

Most former pros in this age category still chose to compete in the elite category. In the 19-34 group, the victory went to Brit Oliver Robinson, who rode for the continental Team Wiggins a few years ago. Italian Raul Colombo, who has been present on the continental circuit for several years, and Lithuanian Eimantas Gudiskis joined him on the podium.

In the 35 to 39 age group, Belgian Thomas Sprengers, who rode for Topsport Vlaanderen for nine years between 2013 and 2021, took the win. German Benjamin Ahrendt and Dutchman Jasper Verkuijl finished second and third, while Martin Kelderman, the brother of—, came in fifth.

In the over-40 category, there were a lot more familiar names. Irishman Nicolas Roche, who competed for AG2R, Sky, Tinkoff, and Sunweb for many years, won. “I am so relieved that I can now say that I have added a world championship to my career,” said a delighted Roche.

"After breaking my hip in February, I wasn't sure if I would dare to take any more risks! It took me six months to decide to start racing again, rather than just creating content. It's been a rollercoaster ride this year, and although I won't mention anyone by name, everyone will know who they are. I want to thank those who motivated me in my private life and as an athlete to get fit again."

‘It's “only” Masters 40, but this means a lot to me. Thank you all for your support. I can't wait to wear the jersey,’ continued Roche, who thanked his former colleague Philippe Gilbert—who ultimately finished fifth—for racing together on the Limburg course.

Francis De Greef (sixth), Bert De Backer (eleventh), Alberto Losada (23rd), former soccer player Jelle Van Damme (32nd), Hans Dekkers (38th), and Enrico Franzoi (54th) also participated.

In the 45 to 49 age group, Italian Igor Zanetti won, beating Belgian former pro Davy Commeyne and Dutch mountain biker Erwin Bakker. Austrian Rene Haselbacher (24th) was also among the participants in this group who rode on Sunday, as was Bram Tankink. However, the course designer for this World Championship had a flat tire within twelve kilometers and did not make it to the finish line.

One day earlier, names such as Frank Hoj (50-54), Udo Bölts (55-59), and Johan Museeuw (60-64) were also in action.