Junior Emilien Belzile on the shock of first Euro ‘cross races

Emilien Belzile is racing ‘cross for the first time in Europe, and he’s learning just how different it is. He’s the current junior national champion, having taken a big win in Levis, Que. The race came down to a final sprint between Evan Moore and him, and he won the race with a bike throw.

Belzile, 16, has already impressed outside of Canada–having taken some impressive results stateside.

He had a solid 2024 under-19 cyclocross season, with standout performances including 2nd place finishes at Thunder Cross, both days of Kings CX, and Major Taylor Cross Cup Day 1, along with a 3rd place at the Pan-American Championships. He also consistently placed in the top 10 at the Trek USCX series, including two 5th place finishes.

Since then, he has travelled across the pond to begin his Euro season on the under-19 circuit.

Steady progression in Europe

His first result was a 38th place finish at the UCI World Cup Besançon on December 29th, 2024, followed by a 32nd place in Zonhoven and a 26th place in Hulst. His latest and best result came on Jan. 1st, 2025, with a very impressive 5th place finish at the X2O Trofee Baal – GP Sven Nys.

Going into the races, he knew there would be some adjustment. But how much–he didn’t know.

Thibau Nys did a supersonic shoe change at his dad’s race

“I knew the courses in World Cups and Belgium would be different from those in Canada, but I never expected them to be this different,” Belzile said. “Racing in Europe is a whole other experience. The terrain, the spectators, and the level of competitors featuring riders from all over the world are on an entirely different level.”

The key differences from North America

Belzile says that in North America many of the ‘cross races quickly become a race with ones and twos–there’s little to no pack racing. In Europe, however, he says that is totally different. The relentless pace, he says, means you need to be vigilant from the start to finish.

“The field is incredibly strong and aggressive, and if you don’t hold your ground, you’ll get pushed around. The course obstacles are massive and impressive, providing a huge adrenaline rush,” he said.

Another marked difference is the fans. Belzile races for Stimulus – Trek–the same squad that was home to multiple world champion Bella Holmgren and her sister Ava. The twins now ride for WorldTour team, Trek-Lidl.
“The spectators in Europe take the race atmosphere to another level. I’ve never seen so…