3 punctures take Schurter out of the fight for the overall World Cup title

We saw him in the Short Track on Saturday and confirmed it in the XCO race on Sunday, Swiss rider Nino Schurter was one of the favorites for the victory. But 3 punctures took him out of the fight for the win and for the overall classification.

Very bad luck for Nino Schurter in the XCO World Cup at Lake Placid

In addition to the fight for the victory itself, in the XCO World Cup at Lake Placid, the winner of the General Classification could be decided. South African Alana Hatjerly was, and is, the one with the best chance to win it, but Nino Schurter was close behind and had his own chances.

Chances that disappeared when he was leading the race and a first double puncture set him back more than 50". From there, the 10-time world champion was not even focused by the television cameras, but after finishing in 25th position, he explained that he suffered another puncture, which prevented him from reaching the top positions again.

Despite losing his chances in the overall standings, with only Koretzky able to beat Hatherly if the South African does not score and the Frenchman wins, Nino Schurter was very optimistic about his performance and promises to come back strong in a week in Canada.

"Tactical and fast races in Lake Placid. I fought for the podium, but then things went wrong - first a double puncture and then another one a lap later, taking away all my hopes of a better position. At least the signs indicate that I am up again. Next and last chance to change things next week in Canada!"