Rider in elimination stage (9)

I believe the answer is:

qualifier

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This clue could be a double definition.

'rider' is the first definition.
The definition and answer can be both related to communication as well as being singular nouns.
Maybe you can see an association between them that I don't see?

'elimination stage' is the second definition.
The definition and answer can be both related to communication as well as being singular nouns.
Maybe there's an association between them I don't understand?

'in' acts as a link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for qualifier that I've seen before include "Contestant who meets the basic requirements" , "heat" .)

I've seen this clue in The Guardian.

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