CFR’s Final Flourish

The morning fog at Mont-Sainte-Anne wrapped the trees in stillness, as if the forest was holding its breath for what was to come. For Cannondale Factory Racing, this was the closing chapter of the 2024 UCI Cross-Country Olympic (XCO) World Cup—a season written in sweat, determination, and the quiet moments that make champions. Donning the rainbow jersey, Alan Hatherly moved to the start line with the kind of calm that only comes from knowing exactly who you are. His season-ending performance culminated into an expression of everything he had become.

From the first pedal stroke, Alan moved with purpose. He widened the gap not through force, but through control. The Cannondale Scalpel moved with him as if it shared his pulse. Each climb was conquered with composure, each descent handled with grace. With every turn of the course, his lead grew, a crescendo that ended with Alan crossing the line, arms raised, the World Cup title secured. Thus, the 2024 season concludes with the story of a rider who didn’t just race for the win, but for the beauty of the ride itself.

Charlie Aldridge rode his own narrative that day. He fought fiercely for 4th, his every climb a testament to his heart and dedication to his craft. Simon Andreassen, steady and focused, crossed in 9th, rounding out a team symphony of resilience, trust, and connection. Together, they filled the top 10 with more than numbers—they filled it with the spirit of Cannondale Factory Racing.

Cannondale Factory Racing didn’t just rise individually—they came together as the fastest team of the day, earning the final yellow plate as the top Elite men’s team for 2024. A season defined by teamwork, shared victories, and a unity that carried them through every race.

As the race ended, the stillness returned, but something lingered in the air—an energy, a memory of what was created on those trails. Cannondale Factory Racing didn’t just ride to the finish line—they wove together a story of what it means to belong to something greater than yourself. Three riders, united by more than a jersey, showed what it means to race not for oneself, but for each other.