July 6, 2026 - Montreal is renowned for its love affair with cycling, and this year will once again host the prestigious UCI Road World Championships 2026.

In 1974, the first-ever edition of the UCI Road World Cycling Championships was presented outside of Europe on the now legendary Mount Royal circuit. This top cycling event returns to Montréal fifty-two years later from September 20-27, just one week after the Grands Prix Cyclistes de Québec et de Montréal (GPCQM), the first and still the only events on the UCI WorldTour presented in the Americas.

On September 19, the opening ceremony day of Montréal 2026, fans can take part in Rando Vélo Beneva, a once-in-a-lifetime chance to ride on the official world championship courses. Choose from four distances: 10, 20, 40 or 70 km, and become part of this historic moment in the heart of Montréal.

The next day the Elite women’s and men’s Time Trial kick off the UCI Road World Championships kick off as the first rainbow jersey champions are crowned. Don’t miss the U23, Junior and Team Time Trial Mixed relay as all riders hope to etch their names in history

On Sept. 24 the road race action begins as the the U23 and Juniors strut their stuff. Then on Sept. 26, the excitement builds for the Elite women’s 180 km road race as Canadian fans will cheer on defending champ, Magdeleine Vallières Mill from Quebec.

Then on the final day, Sept. 27, the Elite men will tackle a gruelling 273.2 km course concluding on the Mont-Royal circuit, before the winner claims cycling’s biggest prize, the legendary Road World Championship rainbow jersey.

With 11 official hotels all close to the action, there’s lots to choose from including special group offerings as well – visit montreal2026.org and head to the “Plan Your Trip” section to explore packages.

Montréal is also full of must-see attractions including many iconic landmarks, cultural hotspots, and must-eat local delicacies. Enjoy a shopping spree on Sainte-Catherine Street, and take in the cobblestone charm of Vieux-Montréal.

The city’s cycling network spans 1,065 kilometres and it has been awarded the UCI Bike City label, recognizing its strong commitment to cycling, both at the elite level and for everyday urban mobility.

Extend your stay and experience nearby Montérégie, home to the largest cycling network in Quebec featuring over 1,000 kilometers of bike paths for all levels of riders.

The UCI Road World Championships Montréal 2026 will be the city’s largest sporting event since the 1976 Olympic Games, bringing together nearly 1,000 cyclists. This year get ready to be part of the history at Montréal 2026.

Read more about Montreal 2026 here.
Order a copy of Best Cycling Great Escapes with a feature on Montreal and many other great cycling getaways here.