World Cup competition is returning to the Czech Republic venue after a one year absence, with the World Championships having been held instead at the site last year.

Switzerland’s Nino Schurter claimed the men’s world title, adding to his Olympic triumph at Rio 2016, and will be among the main contenders for victory again.

Schurter has won four times at Nové Město na Moravě and the 30-year-old is hopeful that further success will come this weekend.

“Nové Město na Moravě is one of my top races, I am looking forward to the thunderous crowds that are nowhere else to see,” Schurter said.

“I cannot wait for the things to begin in the Czech Republic.

“So far, my season has been good, I have won several races including Cape Epic, so I am feeling well.”

Two-time Olympic champion Julien Absalon has yet to taste success at the Czech venue, but the Frenchman has 33 World Cup wins to his name, so will expect to contest for the victory.

Denmark’s Annika Langvad is the reigning women’s world champion and will hope to repeat her success from last July.

Langvad sealed her fourth World Championship title at the event and will again be one of the favourites.

Olympic champion Jenny Rissveds of Sweden and Switzerland’s Jolanda Neff will also hope to contest the race win.

Competition will begin tomorrow with the men’s under-23 and women’s elite races.

The World Cup will conclude with the women’s under-23 and men’s elite event on Sunday (May 21).