The UCI Management Committee this week approved a proposal for equal prize money for men and women at all UCI World Championships.

Coming into effect from January 2013, this decision applies to all of cycling’s disciplines, with the exception of the road team time trial, whose prize money is funded by a contribution from the UCI WorldTour’s reserve and solidarity fund.

UCI President Pat McQuaid welcomed the decision, saying no distinction should be made between the achievements of men and women:

“The Management Committee’s approval is a simple but very important step forward in our effort to guarantee a healthy and fair future for our sport.”

The first UCI World Championships in 2013 will be for cyclo-cross in Louisville (USA) on February 2 and 3.