Mauro Schmid knows how to tackle next year: "I need to work on my positioning and energy distribution"

According to Schmid, the Swiss road title in June was a real game-changer. Until then, it had been a rough ride with many DNFs and no good results. Fortunately, after the title and the Vuelta, cycling life looked completely different. Still, you need both moments, Schmid believes. "Both victories and defeats make you stronger." Nice advice from Schmid, who has more to offer. "I learned that patience is important. Sometimes I thought too early that I was the strongest and attacked, but I see now that a well-timed moment often works much better," the Swiss later told me when talking about his Vuelta this year. So we can expect a more focused and tactically savvy Schmid next year.

Schmid is known as an all-rounder with experience in mountain biking, track, and cyclo-cross. "They are all different worlds, but you can learn something from all of them. There's nothing better than riding off-road and track races to learn how to handle the bike well." But Schmid also gained experience outside of cycling, ensuring he loves nothing more than cycling. "In some periods, I worked as an assistant auto mechanic, and I understood something important: cycling is challenging sometimes, but working is even tougher."

His move to Jayco AlUla last year felt like a needed new beginning, although his old employer was not entirely happy. At least the second part of the season must have given Schmid hope for next year. As such, he sees plenty of room for improvement. "Every year, I learn and get closer to the top. Above all, I need to work on my positioning and learn to distribute my energy more smartly," is the conclusion of the watch and artwork collector.