Sprint Positioning Strategy

Sprint Positioning Strategy

Position in the final kilometers often determines sprint results more than raw power.

The Final 5 Kilometers

• 5-3km: Move to front 30-40 riders, choose side based on wind/corners
• 3-1.5km: Top 20 positions, fight to stay on wheels
• 1.5km-500m: Top 10, latch onto rival trains if needed
• 500m-200m: Final positioning, maximum acceleration begins
• 200m-finish: All-out sprint

Course Reconnaissance

• Identify final corner (often 250-400m from finish)
• Note wind direction (favors one side of road)
• Find barriers, islands, roundabouts (pinch points)
• Gradient changes in final kilometer

Power Cost of Position

• Moving up from 50th to 20th: 30-60 seconds at 110% FTP
• Maintaining top 20: 10-20W above peloton average
• Late positioning surge: 120-140% FTP for 15 seconds
• Cost vs benefit: Earlier positioning saves energy later

Risk Management

Front positions risk being first in crashes and hitting wind first. Middle positions risk being boxed. Back positions risk gaps opening. Elite sprinters balance risk based on team strength, course layout, and rivals' positioning.