Marie Schreiber's European title controversy escalates as Luxembourg federation files official complaint

The Luxembourg cycling federation (FSCL) has filed an official complaint with the Union Européenne de Cyclisme (UEC) following Marie Schreiber’s relegation in the elite women’s race at the European Cyclocross Championships on Saturday. 

The elite women’s race in Zeddam came down to a sprint finish between Schreiber and world champion Lucinda Brand. The Luxembourg rider crossed the line first, but the celebrations were short-lived. 

Race officials subsequently relegated Schreiber to second place, ruling that she had deviated from her line and impeded Brand. 

“Following the women’s race at the European Cyclocross Championships, the FSCL officially filed a complaint with the UEC regarding the jury’s decision,” read the FSCL’s statement released on Sunday.

“That is why the FSCL is calling for the race standings to be determined based on the order in which the riders crossed the finish line.”

An emotional Schreiber accused the race officials of taking away the biggest moment of her career and revealed that Brand had told the commissaires that she did not believe the Luxembourg rider had done anything wrong. 

Her coach, Sanne Cant, a former three-time winner of the elite women’s European title, was equally critical of the decision, describing it as one of the most ridiculous encounters in her time with the sport. 

Schreiber subsequently boycotted the podium ceremony, where Brand was awarded the European champion’s jersey to add to the rainbows, with Ceylin Alvarado taking the bronze medal. 

Additionally, Sven Nys, manager of Brand's Baloise-Het Poetsbureau Lions team, also questioned the decision. 

"Yes, she [Schreiber] moves a little off her line. But is that really enough to relegate someone to second place in a championship?" Nys said.