Here’s a bold statement: Lucinda Brand is rewriting the record books in cyclocross, and her latest achievement is nothing short of extraordinary. But here’s where it gets controversial—while some might argue that consistency isn’t as glamorous as outright victories, Brand’s 50 consecutive podium finishes are a testament to her relentless determination and a career that defies the typical athlete’s arc. At 36, she’s not just competing; she’s dominating in ways that challenge our understanding of what’s possible in the twilight of a professional career.
Brand’s 2024-25 season wasn’t her most victorious—that honor goes to her 2021-22 season, where she claimed 20 wins out of 33 races, often in the coveted rainbow jersey. But it was her most consistent, with an astonishing 33 podium finishes in 33 races, bringing her total to 41 podiums. Fast forward to the 2025-26 season, and Brand has shown no signs of slowing down. In nine appearances, she’s finished in the top two every single time, only bested twice by Sara Casasola and Inge van der Heijden. With recent wins at Merksplas and Hamme, she’s now just two podiums away from surpassing compatriot Marianne Vos in consecutive finishes.
And this is the part most people miss—Brand’s streak isn’t just about talent; it’s about grit. After a DNF at the UCI World Cup Benidorm in late 2023, she rebounded with a second-place finish at the Hamme Flandriencross in January 2024, kicking off this unprecedented run. What makes this even more remarkable? She started this streak at 34, an age when most athletes are contemplating retirement, not setting new benchmarks.
“I’m not that into statistics, but this is very special,” Brand admitted after her win at ‘Strawberrycross’ Merksplas. “For some, it might seem routine, but it’s anything but. I’m incredibly proud of it.” Her humility only adds to the awe of her accomplishment.
This streak isn’t just a personal triumph; it’s a rarity in the sport. Only a handful of riders, including Marianne Vos and Mathieu van der Poel, have achieved such consistency. But here’s the question that sparks debate—is Brand’s consistency more impressive than a single season of dominance? Does her ability to maintain this level of performance at her age make her a contender for the title of GOAT in women’s cyclocross?
As we celebrate this veteran hero’s remarkable journey, it’s clear that her legacy isn’t just about wins—it’s about resilience, longevity, and redefining what’s possible. So, we ask you: Does Lucinda Brand’s consistency make her one of the greatest of all time? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
