Surprising Unbound participants: A former Ajax player and even a current Formula 1 driver

Unbound is just around the corner, and that means the world’s gravel pros are gearing up for one of the most prestigious races of all. Among all the cyclists, we also spot some other athletes: former Belgian soccer pro Jelle Van Damme is riding the full distance, while Formula 1 driver Valtteri Bottas (Sauber) will tackle the 100-mile course.

Tiffany Cromwell, Bottas' girlfriend and a professional cyclist, is aiming for the podium in the elite women's category. "I'm ready, or perhaps not..." she shared through Instagram. "326 kilometers and more than 3000 meters of climbing over a course made up of 98% gravel. It’s set to be my biggest day on the bike ever and I must admit I'm not even a fan of long races."

"But Unbound 200 is where the big kids play. So if you want to play with them, then you have to do the main event! I'm excited to go to battle against a strong women's field and see how I stack up over such a distance. I must thank Valtteri for his support at this event. As a participant in the 100-mile race, I wish him and everyone else the best for Unbound. Let's all hope there aren’t too many sharp rocks or peanut butter (as the mud in America is called, ed.)."

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Van Damme joins as 'domestique' for Van Avermaet

Van Damme, former player of Ajax, Anderlecht and other teams, joins as part of the Belgian brigade, which also includes Greg Van Avermaet and Jan Bakelants. "Greg convinced me in January," he told Sporza. "Greg gives me tips: if you ride smart and pace yourself well, you can go far. My goal is actually to stay with Greg as long as possible. If he then has mechanical issues, I can work for him... I'm willing to give up my wheels, because I think Greg can really get close."

"Jelle is in shape and is feeling good," said Van Avermaet about his domestique. "He has specifically prepared for this race. I think he can achieve something for me, but also for himself. He won't win, but he can certainly go far. It's not a must, but of course, it would be nice."