New Four Cross Pro Tour set for 2012

Anneke Beerten (Netherlands) (Image credit: Tour of Japan)

Following the UCI's decision to eliminate four cross from the mountain bike World Cup circuit at the end of the 2011 season, the Four Cross Alliance has been working to ensure a new four cross series would exist for 2012. The new series will be known as the "4X Pro Tour" and will consist of five rounds in at least four countries.

"The 4X Alliance has been working with the UCI and race organisers to create the new 4X Pro Tour," read a statement by organizers. "As you can see from the calendar, we are stoked that some of the existing World Cup events have made this statement and continued with their belief that four cross should be on the World stage in 2012. Houffalize, Val Di Sole and Fort William will all host rounds of the 2012 4X Pro Tour alongside World Cup cross country and downhill during those weekends.

"Four cross has been gaining popularity over the past few years, and after the UCI announced it would not be part of the World Cup in 2012, we knew we had to create our own series and continue to grow the sport," said Roberts. "2012 will be important for the development of four cross and together with some fantastic support from organisers, riders and fans, we are looking forward to an awesome season."