Luke Moir trained for years without a podium in sight but yesterday in Brazil, everything changed. The 22-year-old South African mountain biker just finished fifth at the UCI World Cup… and broke down in tears of pure joy.
Western Cape, South Africa (13 April 2025) – Sometimes sport hands us a moment that hits straight in the chest… no script, no spotlight, just pure emotion. And yesterday, 22-year-old South African mountain biker Luke Moir gave us exactly that.
Competing in the Elite Men’s UCI World Cup in Brazil, Luke crossed the finish line and secured fifth place, a jaw-dropping result on the world stage. But it wasn’t just his ranking that caught the attention of fans around the globe. It was what came after.
In a video posted by “UCI Mountian Bike World Series”, an emotional Luke can be seen trying to make sense of what just happened. Struggling to hold back tears, he says, “I’ve been training for so many years and coming nowhere… and now I’ve finished in the top five.”
His voice cracks. His head drops. And you can feel every bit of what that finish means to him. Years of grit. Sacrifice. Disappointment. Pushing through when the podium felt like a fantasy. All of it… worth it in that one unforgettable moment.
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But behind that powerful moment is a story of resilience that deserves to be told.
In October last year, Luke signed a contract with a new Swiss team for 2025. He received his first bike on January 1st, and everything seemed to be on track. However, at the start of February, both Luke and the team were informed that the title sponsor had never been secured, leaving them completely stranded.
The news came heartbreakingly late in the season, making it nearly impossible to find another team. Unfortunately, no opportunities have materialised, leaving Luke without a team for 2025. Despite this setback, he remains determined to race.
And if his achievements are anything to go by, he’s got every reason to keep going.
Last year alone, Luke broke into the U23 World Top 10, was selected as a reserve for the 2024 Paris Olympics, claimed his 9th South African Championship title, and secured a World Cup podium in Canada, proving he is a world-class athlete.
Now, he’s taking the privateer route, which comes with significant personal costs. He’s hoping to raise approximately R750,000 for the year. Funds that will allow him to continue competing at the highest level, against European and American teams with multi-million-euro and dollar budgets.
“For those who don’t know me and want to know more,” Luke shares, “my name is Luke Moir and I am a professional XCO (Cross Country Olympic) mountain biker. I am 22 years old and whilst I’ve competed in a few World Cup races in the past, 2024 was my first full World Cup season in the U23 age category. I finished 8th overall in the series, with 6 Top 10 placements and a podium finish in Canada. In the World Champs, I placed 7th in the World XCC champs (short track) and 9th in the XCO champs.”
“Any support – big or small – will make a significant difference in keeping me on the world stage.”
Corporate sponsors can reach out to Ciska at ciskaaustin@gmail.com.
This is what happens when passion meets perseverance. When an athlete keeps chasing the dream, even when it seems out of reach. When a young South African refuses to give up and finally gets his moment.
Luke, we see you. We’re proud of you. And we’re cheering for everything that comes next.
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