Sanne Cant secured a thrilling victory today ©UCI/Twitter

Belgium's Sanne Cant outsprinted Marianne Vos to claim a thrilling victory today in difficult conditions as the International Cycling Union (UCI) Cyclo-Cross World Championships began in Bieles, Luxembourg today.

An early-morning rain show removed most of the snow on the lapped course close to the French border.

Ice had turned into slippery mud by the time the 15.55 kilometres women's race got underway.

In the absence of compatriot and defending champion Thalita de Jong, Dutch star Vos was the heavy favourite for an eighth world title.

She had duly built an eight second lead by the beginning of the final one of five laps.

But Cant fought back to move into the lead on a camber descent.

Vos sat on her wheel but proved unable to make inroads as they entered the finishing straight.

The 26-year-old duly claimed a maiden world title in 43min 062sec.

"I can’t believe it," said the UCI world rankings leader after her victory.

"The jersey is mine for a whole year.

“I really can’t believe I beat Marianne Vos. 

"She‘s the seven-time world champion, she’s really history. 

"It’s an incredible day, the most beautiful day of my life.”

Vos finished a second behind in silver medal position.

Katerina Nash crossed the line 21 seconds behind a winner in third place for the Czech Republic.

The men's race is due to take place tomorrow.