Virtual Velo Podcast-Ep. 45: The Research Team Leading the UCI’s Smart Trainer Standardization Program

In Episode 45 of the Virtual Velo Podcast, hosts Chris and Emma catch up with the Purdue University College of Engineering team of Prof. Jan-Anders Mansson and researchers Patrick Cavanaugh and Teal Dowd, who are leading the UCI’s smart trainer homologation and data manipulation program.

The group is currently in Lucerne, Switzerland, preparing to present their years of groundbreaking smart trainer standardization research and engineering to the UCI. This work is critical for creating a level playing field and essential to the evolution of cycling esports.

Creating a device and protocol to characterize smart trainer behavior is crucial for ensuring fair competition and providing competition organizers and governing bodies, such as the UCI and the IOC, with the tools to make informed decisions about the integrity of the sport.

We explore the program’s practical implementation, market disruption, and necessity in the sport’s Olympic aspirations.

Don’t miss out on the unique opportunity to delve even deeper into the intriguing topics discussed in this episode. We’ve curated a selection of articles that inspired our conversation, providing you with exclusive insights.

• UCI to develop smart trainer standardization process to level esports playing field [CyclingNews, February 9, 2024]
• The Olympic Esports Games set for 2025: here’s what we know about the event [Cycling Weekly, January 31, 2024]
• Flamme Rouge Racing Announces the Groundbreaking MYTIKAS esGames—A Comprehensive Guide [Zommunique, June 5, 2024]
• UCI Releases 2024 Cycling Esports World Championship Race Book Clarifying Event Details [Zommunique, June 5, 2024]

Join us for a conversational ride where we not only lend a voice to the digital athlete but also bridge the gap between athlete and avatar. We invite you to be part of this exciting exploration of the future of virtual sport and digital athlete engagement!