The workers are threatening to interfere with the plans of Pogacar, Evenepoel, Seixas and company.

Montreal’s preparations for the UCI Road World Championships, set to take place from September 20 to 27, have been overshadowed by growing uncertainty over potential strikes by municipal workers. Approximately 6,000 city employees, who have lacked a valid collective agreement since January 1, are threatening to walk out during the event. The union Syndicat des cols bleus regroupés de Montréal (CUPE 301), which represents these workers, has warned that current working conditions effectively reduce their real income by around 10 percent. This dispute threatens to disrupt the logistics of one of the largest sporting events in the world. The strike threat comes amid ongoing negotiations over a new collective agreement, which have progressed slowly. Despite multiple attempts by workers to push for better terms, including wage increases, there has been little movement. The union now appears to be considering a more dramatic step, organizing a strike during the World Championships, which could put additional pressure on local authorities and potentially accelerate talks. While the exact scope of such action remains unclear, even the possibility of a strike could create further logistical challenges for organizers. If the strike proceeds, it would affect several key municipal services, though the extent of disruption is yet to be determined. The timing of the strike, coinciding with the World Championships, could complicate efforts to manage traffic, security, and public infrastructure. Organizers are already preparing for the influx of athletes, officials, and spectators, and any labor-related disruptions could threaten the smooth operation of the event. The union has not specified whether the strike would involve all its members or just a portion of them, leaving room for speculation about how widespread the impact might be. The World Championships will feature some of cycling’s top stars, including reigning world champion Tadej Pogačar, along with other notable riders such as Enzo Evenepoel and Marc Houtlist. The event will serve as a major platform for both established champions and emerging talent, drawing international attention to Montreal’s ability to host high-profile sporting events. Meanwhile, Slovenia will host the European Championships from October 2 to 7, providing another opportunity for regional athletes to shine. Union representatives have emphasized that the lack of progress in negotiations has left workers feeling undervalued. They argue that the current compensation package fails to reflect the cost of living and the demands of modern urban work environments. In contrast, local government officials have expressed concerns about the potential economic and reputational damage that a strike could inflict on the city. With the World Championships serving as a global stage, any disruption could have lasting consequences beyond the immediate event. As the deadline for reaching a new agreement approaches, tensions remain high. Workers continue to push for tangible improvements, while authorities seek to balance their obligations to both employees and the broader community. Whether the strike materializes, and if so, how it unfolds, will likely shape the final days leading up to the championships. For now, the situation remains fluid, with both sides poised to make their next move in the coming weeks.