Cycling Australia today welcomed the joint announcement of the Steering Committee for the 2010 UCI Road Cycling World Championships and confirmation Melbourne will host a round of the UCI Track Cycling World Cup Classics for the next three years.

"Cycling has experienced unprecedented growth in Australia over the past few years in both participation and interest and these truly international events will provide an opportunity to further showcase our sport in Australia," said Mike Victor, OAM, President of Cycling Australia. "We are delighted with the support the Victorian Government is providing and look forward to working with them to deliver outstanding events on both track and road.

"The World Championships Steering Committee will be chaired by former Victorian Premier, Stephen Bracks and includes a wealth of talented individuals representing sport and business," said Mr Victor. "We're confident they will deliver a truly exceptional World Championships."

2007 ProTour Champion and Tour de France runner up Cadel Evans says he's looking forward to racing the World Championships at home.

"It's an honour and great opportunity for Melbourne and Geelong to be the focus of the cycling world for what is the pinnacle of my sport - the battle for the coveted rainbow jersey," said Evans. "I applaud the Victorian Government and the City of Greater Geelong for their support and I'm happy to be able to play a role in promoting such a great sport to participants and spectators alike."

Olympic Champion Anna Meares is thrilled the Track World Cup is heading to Melbourne.

"I think it's fantastic because it's one of the best venues in the world and always attracts a great crowd to support us," said Meares adding the venue has always been a lucky one for her. "The first time I competed on Vodafone Arena I won gold and silver (2004 World Championships) in front of a full house and that's a very special memory for me."

The Melbourne round of the 2008-2009 UCI Track World Cup Classics will be staged at Vodafone Arena from 20 to 22 November, 2008 and annually through until 2010. The 2010 UCI Road World Championships will be held in October (dates to be confirmed).

Cycling Australia
www.cycling.org.au