Lavreysen says eighth straight world sprint title means ‘a lot’

Harrie Lavreysen said his eighth consecutive world sprint title and 23rd World Championship gold meant “a lot” to him after he beat Australia’s Leigh Hoffman in the final in Shanghai.

The 29-year-old Dutch rider told NOS that the achievement took hard work: “I don’t get it for free.” He said he had prepared a plan for the final after Hoffman appeared strong in qualifying the previous day, and was especially pleased to win both rides without mistakes. [1]

Lavreysen, a five-time Olympic champion, said he would wear the rainbow jersey in all sprint events next year. The Shanghai championships also began the qualification process for the Los Angeles Olympics, which are less than two years away. He has said he hopes to add to his Olympic medal record there.