Ever since the end of the UCI World Cup in 2005, and the evolution of the ProTour/WorldTour, the sport has struggled to find its identity with a calendar overrun with races and concentrated largely in old world Europe. The UCI is seeking to reform and modernise the WorldTour, but faces an uphill battle with deeply entrenched race organisers and sentimental attachments to historical races that often crowd out newcomers.
Bicycle racing may be a sweepingly beautiful sport, filled with rich characters and gripping battles, but it is a business that desperately needs new customers. There has been talk of globalising the sport, but it is a project that requires the UCI to both lead the way as well as follow the trends in cycling fandom.
There may be plenty of cash in the Middle East, funding solid races like the Tours of Qatar, Oman, Dubai and the upcoming World Championships, but the spectator base is thin and the cycling culture still growing. There are other races across the globe that are more ripe for inclusion in the WorldTour, and Cyclingnews has picked five that should be considered.
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The Tour of California has lasted for a full decade, holding its own while other races have come and gone. Centered in the most cycling-mad regions of the world, the race is a no-brainer for the sport's top tier. The race has quality courses, a big fan base, and strong fields. The only things holding it back are its position on the calendar, which conflicts with the Giro d'Italia, the rules surrounding inclusion of the teams, and the race organisation itself.
Moving from February to May gave the Tour of California new life, but it is also stunting its growth. The race has plenty to offer in sporting terms - majestic views, sweeping vistas, punishing climbs - but its value has been a double edged sword. By clashing with the Giro d'Italia and aligning itself with the ASO the race has sold itself short as political pawn while failing to capitalise fully on the opportunities the industry in the state has to offer. While some riders take it seriously, many view it as a post-Classics holiday in luxury hotels.
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