Did We Kill Gravel? (how we ruined it ) With Nathan Haas

Jan 21, 2026

In this engaging conversation, Nathan Haas, a former WorldTour cyclist who has transitioned into gravel racing and coaching, explores the evolution of gravel racing. He discusses the shift from community spirit to a more professional, competitive atmosphere, influenced by sponsorships and ex-WorldTour riders. Nathan reflects on the loss of camaraderie and the implications of performance-focused incentives. The discussion also touches on the importance of balance in cycling, advocating for inclusivity while maintaining individual narratives and safety within the sport.

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ANECDOTE

Factory Pit Stops Versus Privateers

Nathan described a past Unbound where a factory team executed a flawless pit stop with multiple crew and fresh wheels.
He contrasted that with privateers doing basic self-service at feeds, illustrating unequal race resources.

ADVICE

Protect The Privateer Model

Preserve the privateer model so grassroots riders still feel welcome and inspired.
Support events and teams that celebrate individuals, not only large branded squads.

INSIGHT

Incentives Drive Professionalization

Teams and infrastructure change incentives, pushing riders toward hyper-professionalization.
That shift risks making gravel less accessible and more exclusive for typical participants.

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People keep saying gravel is dead — not because it disappeared, but because it changed. In this video, Anthony sits down with pro gravel racer Nathan Haas for an honest conversation about how gravel racing became faster, more professional, and more competitive than ever, and how that evolution may have stripped away some of what made it special in the first place.

This isn’t about blame or nostalgia for the “good old days,” but about understanding what actually happened as gravel grew from a loose, community-driven scene into a serious racing discipline.

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