Nukeproof Axess Racing finding its rhythm in early European World Cups
After the opening round in South Korea, Nukeproof Axess Racing has also gathered its first reference points in Europe. In Loudenvielle-Peyragudes and Saalfelden-Leogang, the team found itself in two completely different sets of conditions, with results that mainly paint the picture of a team still in development.
In Loudenvielle, the weather played a major role. The track was dry and dusty, limiting visibility and making it difficult to find a consistent rhythm. Small mistakes were quickly punished. The results — with finishes around 46th, 49th and 85th place — do not immediately stand out, but they do sit within a tightly packed field. For Joe Breeden, the weekend did not unfold as hoped, although the focus afterwards remained largely on the process and the upcoming races.
In Loudenvielle, the weather played a major role. The track was dry and dusty, limiting visibility and making it difficult to find a consistent rhythm. Small mistakes were quickly punished. The results — with finishes around 46th, 49th and 85th place — do not immediately stand out, but they do sit within a tightly packed field. For Joe Breeden, the weekend did not unfold as hoped, although the focus afterwards remained largely on the process and the upcoming races.
Leogang offers more clarity
A few weeks later in Leogang, the team was faced with almost the opposite scenario. Rain made the track heavy and highly technical, with a lot of variation between wet and drying sections. There, Nukeproof Axess Racing moved somewhat closer to the upper midfield. Joe Breeden rode his way through qualifying into the final and finished 21st. Mille Johnset also reached the final and placed 14th. Results that are not standout performances, but that do provide direction.
Team continues to build
The past races mainly highlight where the team currently stands. Nukeproof Axess Racing is still very much in development, with a structure that has been built step by step over the past years around Joe Breeden. At the same time, the familiar challenges of the sport are present. The absence of Lou Ferguson after her crash in the opening round is being felt, while other riders are still searching for their best form. On an individual level, Juanfer Vélez stands out as he tries to reconnect with his level following injury and gradually works his way back.
With two European rounds completed, it is still too early to draw firm conclusions. The differences in the UCI MTB World Series are small and the calendar is long. For Nukeproof Axess Racing, the focus for now seems to be on finding consistency, eliminating mistakes and moving forward race by race. The upcoming rounds will need to show how far that progression can go.
With two European rounds completed, it is still too early to draw firm conclusions. The differences in the UCI MTB World Series are small and the calendar is long. For Nukeproof Axess Racing, the focus for now seems to be on finding consistency, eliminating mistakes and moving forward race by race. The upcoming rounds will need to show how far that progression can go.
