The UCI Road Race Championships take place in Doha, Qatar next month. It is the first time the races will take place in the Persian Gulf.
Since 2003, the Championships have always began in September, but have been pushed back to mid October this year to cope with the heat of Qatar.
Despite the expected 40-degree temperature in Doha, the UCI have already made contingency plans to shorten the races, if the temperature becomes unsafe.
All the best riders on the planet will be racing for the most coveted jersey 🌈 in cycling... UCI Road Worlds are coming! #UCIDoha2016 pic.twitter.com/Lx3fytmMtF
— UCI (@UCI_cycling) October 3, 2016
According to CyclingNews, the world governing body will take daily temperature checks before the races. 12 races will take place over eight days, culminating in the elite men's race on October 16th.
The men's race is scheduled to be almost 260 kilometres long, but could be shortened by over 100 kilometres, if medical personnel deem it fit.
A booklet named Beat the Heat has also been produced to advise cyclists on how to combat the heat, during races.
The precautions taken by the UCI, continues to put the focus on FIFA's hosting of the 2022 World Cup in Doha. The tournament has been moved from its traditional June date to take place in November and December. The average temperature in Qatar for the tournament will be around 27-degrees.
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