More risks, a fear of negative racing and the mud – pros predict how Unbound Gravel will play out

A long-range flyer crossing the finish solo. A nine-up sprint coming down the chute. A five-person breakaway detonating in the final kilometre. Expected victors and unknown Unbound debutants. Year after year, Unbound Gravel ends differently, and on the eve of the world’s biggest gravel race, the only certainty is uncertainty.

Every factor of the race is challenging: the long, 200-mile distance, the terrain known for its tyre-slicing rocks and undulating profile, and the self-sufficiency. Without follow cars, riders have to possess some mechanical know-how to fix issues on the fly while also carrying enough water and nutrition to last up to 70 miles at a time. Even the absolute fastest pros need more than 9 hours to complete the course.