Michael Matthews: "UCI points are ruining cycling"

UCI points have become extremely important in cycling in recent years. Since the introduction of a promotion/relegation system, teams have increasingly focused on scoring points. This is a thorn in Michael Matthews’ side.

"To be honest, that’s what really ruins cycling for me: those UCI points," said the 35-year-old Australian on the Roadman Podcast. He is bothered by certain teams that are more concerned with collecting as many top placings (and the associated points) as possible rather than going for the win. "Nowadays, you see so many teams that don’t have a favorite to win a particular race, but aim to place as many riders as possible in the top ten. I’m totally against this."

"Not only Astana, but many teams set up their rosters in a way that they mostly race against each other. How can a team spirit develop from that? Cycling becomes an individual sport; it’s no longer a team sport. You try to convince cycling fans that it’s a team sport, but then you see three sprinters from the same team sprinting against each other in a sprint finish."

Going for dream races
The focus on UCI points also affects how race programs are put together. In some races with less prestigious names and fields, there are still plenty of points to be gained. "Someone once advised me to focus on other races, because winning the big races I dream of would be too difficult. For me, that was one of the most painful things I’ve ever heard. Why do I even practice this sport then?"

"My dream is to win Milan-San Remo, my dream is to win the Tour of Flanders. And then I wouldn’t even start because on paper there are riders better than me? I totally disagree with that. That’s not a sport for me. I want to be the best possible version of myself and go for wins in my dream races."