2025 UCI BMX Racing World Cup – Round 4 Recap: Papendal, Netherlands
Round 4 in Papendal was a Sunday to remember for team GB, as both the elite men’s and women’s categories saw British riders rise to the top of the podium. Ross Cullen claimed his first-ever World Cup win in the men’s elite final, while Bethany Shriever powered her way to victory in the women’s elite race. With stunning performances that showcased their grit, determination, and skill, Cullen and Shriever delivered a perfect result for Team GB, marking a monumental moment in the 2025 season.
Women’s Elite: Bethany Shriever Takes the Win in Style
Watch the Women’s Elite Final via the official UCI YouTube channel
The women’s elite final was packed with excitement, and Bethany Shriever for team GB made an impressive return to the top step of the podium. Starting from gate eight, Shriever used the long first straight to her advantage, surging into the lead. Despite challenges from Saya Sakakibara (Australia) and Molly Simpson (Canada), Shriever held on to take her first World Cup win of the season.
Saya Sakakibara, the current World Cup champion, secured second place, and Molly Simpson clinched third after a strong start. The race was a showcase of skill and tactics, with Shriever proving that her experience and confidence were key in navigating the challenges of the track and weather.
Final Standings – Women’s Elite
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Bethany Shriever (GBR 🇬🇧)
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Saya Sakakibara (AUS 🇦🇺)
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Molly Simpson (CAN 🇨🇦)
“It feels unreal to be back at the top. It’s been a long road, but today everything just clicked. I’m thrilled to take this win, especially on a track like Papendal, which has always been one of my favorites. I’m just grateful to be back and more motivated than ever.”
– Bethany Shriever, GB
Men’s Elite: Ross Cullen Breaks Through for His First Win
Watch the Men’s Elite Final via the official UCI YouTube channel
In the men’s elite final, Ross Cullen of Great Britain claimed his first World Cup victory after a flawless ride. Cullen, starting from gate eight, took full advantage of the long first straight, setting himself up for the win with a smooth and controlled lap. Cameron Wood of the United States made a strong push for the win but ultimately finished second, while Sylvain Andre (France), the series leader, fought hard to claim third.
Cullen’s victory marks a breakthrough in his career, and his performance was a testament to his skill and perseverance throughout the event.
Final Standings – Men’s Elite
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Ross Cullen (GBR 🇬🇧)
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Cameron Wood (USA 🇺🇸)
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Sylvain Andre (FRA 🇫🇷)
“It’s been a long time coming, and today, it finally paid off. All the hard work, the setbacks, and the frustrations, it’s all worth it when you cross that line first. I couldn’t have done it without the support of my team and my family. This win is for them.”
– Ross Cullen, GB
Under 23 Women: Michelle Wissing – Can’t Stop, Won’t Stop
Watch the Women’s Under 23s Final via the official UCI YouTube channel
Michelle Wissing of the Netherlands continued her dominant streak in the under 23 women’s competition, securing her fourth consecutive World Cup win. Wissing, who has been unbeatable so far this season, was challenged by Renske Van Santvoort (Netherlands), who finished second, and Domenica Gissell Mora Cordero (Ecuador), who took third.
The under 23 women’s race was competitive and filled with drama, especially after Lily Greenough of New Zealand crashed out in the final turn, disrupting what could have been a strong finish for her.
Final Standings – Women’s Under 23
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Michelle Wissing (NED 🇳🇱)
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Renske Van Santvoort (NED 🇳🇱)
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Domenica Gissell Mora Cordero (ECU 🇪🇨)
“It’s amazing to have had a perfect run so far. Every race feels like a step closer to reaching my full potential. Papendal was another great track to showcase what I’ve been working on, and I’m so proud of my performance today. I’m looking forward to the last rounds, and I’m not stopping here.”
– Michelle Vissing, NED
Under 23 Men: Joshua Jolly Upsets the Streak
Watch the Men’s Under 23s Final via the official UCI YouTube channel
Joshua Jolly of Australia ended Jason Noordam’s perfect run in the under 23 men’s competition, claiming his first World Cup victory. The race was an intense battle between Jolly and Noordam, with Jolly edging out Noordam by a fraction of a second. Casper Pipers (Netherlands) finished third, rounding out the podium.
Jolly’s victory was a significant achievement, and his performance marked a turning point in the series as he now becomes a strong contender.
Final Standings – Men’s Under 23
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Joshua Jolly (AUS 🇦🇺)
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Jason Noordam (NED 🇳🇱)
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Casper Pipers (NED 🇳🇱)
“To finally get my first World Cup win means everything to me. The last few rounds have been tough, but today it all came together. I’m feeling confident and hungry for more as we head into the final rounds. This is just the beginning.”
– Joshua Jolly, AUS
Looking Ahead: World Championships and the Final Rounds of the World Cup
With round four complete, all eyes now turn to the upcoming World Championships in Copenhagen, (July 28th to August 3rd) Denmark, where BMX riders from around the world will compete for the coveted rainbow jersey. The results from Papendal will undoubtedly have an impact on the confidence and momentum of the riders heading into this global event.
Michelle Wissing and Jason Noordam will enter the World Championships with a strong sense of belief, while Ross Cullen and Bethany Shriever will look to build on their World Cup wins. As for Sylvain Andre and Saya Sakakibara, their consistency in the series will keep them in the hunt for the overall title as the World Cup series moves into its final rounds.
Conclusion: A Historic Day at Papendal
Papendal once again delivered an unforgettable round of BMX racing, with new champions emerging, veterans showing their resilience, and plenty of excitement throughout the day. With the 2025 UCI BMX Racing World Cup shaping up to be one of the most competitive events yet, the road to Copenhagen and beyond promises to be full of thrilling moments.
Keep it locked to The Burm
Photos via TVE Photo
