September 03, 2014 – The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) is delighted to announce that Trek Factory Racing German rider Jens Voigt has decided to attempt the Hour record on September 18, 2014 at the Vélodrome Suisse in Grenchen, Switzerland.

The Hour record is one of the most prestigious records in the sport of cycling. The very first of all was set in 1893 by the founder of the Tour de France, Henri Desgrange (35 km 325). The current record – 49 km 700 – was established in 2005 by Czech Republic Ondrej Sosenka.

Welcoming this announcement, UCI President Brian Cookson said: “I’m delighted that one of the most popular riders of the modern era, Jens Voigt, is going to make an attempt on this, the most iconic of all the UCI’s records. It is exactly what we hoped would happen when we changed the rules earlier this year to allow the use of modern track bike design and technology.

“Jens has proven over a long career to be one of the very best riders at the long lone effort, and cycling fans around the world will be delighted with this news. Having been present myself at two previous Hour records, I’m sure his attacking style and willingness to commit himself 100% will provide a superb spectacle. And, like Jens, I too am hoping that this will be the beginning of a new wave of interest in ‘The Magic Hour’, as it was known in a previous golden era of our sport.”

Jens Voigt added: “The Hour record is one of the oldest events in our sport. I want to put a little bit of light and focus on this. The UCI wanted to give back some recognition to the event and I follow their reasoning. It will be no pleasure cruise, but I’m really convinced that I can make it. It’s never 100% sure, of course, but I worked hard and I will keep working hard until the day is there. I look at this as one last present for my fans. I want to give them something to smile about – before the final curtain falls.”

The event will be organised by IMG, one of the leading agencies for Sports, Fashion and Media.