In addition, check out the latest in the battle for bike lanes in Toronto as the Ontario Court of Appeals sided with the Ford Government for the right to remove them, and Cycle Toronto is taking the fight to the Supreme Court of Canada.

There’s also a new national initiative, the Canadian Bicycle Industry Skills Coalition (CBISC) / Coalition canadienne des compétences de l’industrie du vélo (CCCIV), that has been launched to strengthen Canada’s bicycle mechanic workforce.

And don’t miss our extensive coverage of the recent Ontario Bike Summit (OBS), Canada’s premier cycling and active transportation conference, hosted by the Share the Road Cycling Coalition (STR) in Toronto.

For travellers, our regular eAdventures section highlights three great destinations in Canada, the USA and International, while our overview of Cycling Cities on the Move offers a snapshot on three forward-thinking cities that embrace two wheels and active transportation.

Plus, if you’re in the market for an e-bike, a great place to start is with our in-depth test reviews to help you learn more about some of the hottest products in the marketplace.

Enjoy our Fall 2026 Flip Book here and Join the eRevolution.

A memorable weekend began on Friday evening with the Parade of Nations and Opening Ceremony, before the E-Enduro riders took centre stage on Saturday. Helen Weber (GER) and Adrien Dailly (FRA) claimed the weekend’s first two rainbow jerseys, setting the tone for Sunday’s Enduro showdowns.

The Enduro competitors duly delivered, with both Elite titles going down to the wire and the medals only decided on the final, iconic DH Men stage. Gilchrist secured the Men’s Elite rainbow jersey by just four seconds over Elliot Jamieson (CAN), with Richie Rude (USA) taking bronze. In the Women’s Elite race, Richter prevailed by an even finer margin, edging Isabeau Courdurier (FRA) by a single second, while home favourite Nadine Ellecosta (ITA) completed the podium.

The Junior titles went to the pre-race favourites and 2026 UCI Enduro World Cup overall winners, Nežka Libnik (SLO) and Hugo Marti Montessinos (FRA).

Finale Ligure and Finale Outdoor Region are internationally recognised as the birthplace of modern enduro, with the destination having hosted enduro competition every year since 2008. For its first UCI Enduro and E-Enduro World Championships, dedicated spectator zones along some of the course’s most exciting sections gave fans a front-row view of two days of world-class racing.

The UCI Enduro World Championships course put riders to the test across six timed stages and 60 kilometres, featuring 1,850 metres of pedalled elevation gain and 2,850 metres of descending within the timed stages. The route showcased the distinctive character of Finale Outdoor Region, weaving through a trail network carved into the landscape and shaped by the area’s history. Racing began in the hills of the Melogno area before descending towards the venue’s iconic finish beside the Mediterranean Sea.

Gilchrist Holds His Nerve to Claim UCI Enduro World Title
Ryan Gilchrist claimed his first UCI Enduro World Championship title after an impressive and remarkably consistent day of racing in Finale. Having taken his maiden UCI Enduro World Cup victory earlier this season, the Australian carried that stellar form into the UCI World Championships to secure the coveted rainbow jersey.

Defending champion Richie Rude (USA) returned to Enduro competition for the first time in 2026, having spent the season racing downhill, and arrived in Italy looking to retain the rainbow jersey he had won 12 months earlier. But Gilchrist immediately signalled his intentions, edging Rude by just three tenths of a second on the opening Megaroller stage. Elliot Jamieson was third, nine seconds behind.

The loose terrain of Finale proved well suited to the Australian contingent, who locked out the top two positions on the following 930-metre Oribago test. Luke Meier-Smith (AUS) edged Gilchrist by just eight tenths of a second, while Rude conceded three seconds.

After losing 15 seconds to the leader on the opening stage, Meier-Smith continued to claw back time with victory on the newly created Little Dog. Jamieson kept himself firmly in podium contention with the second-fastest time, while Mirco Vendemmia (ITA) placed third.

The battle intensified on the short and powerful Groppo test, where Meier-Smith claimed his second stage win of the day, finishing just one tenth of a second ahead of Rude. Gilchrist, meanwhile, did enough to retain the overall lead.

Blitz provided the toughest test of the day, and Jamieson kept his title hopes alive with an emphatic stage win, going 4.8 seconds faster than his nearest rival. Gilchrist finished second to hold onto the overall lead heading into the decisive final stage, while Meier-Smith’s third place moved him to within a single second of Rude in the battle for bronze. With just eight seconds separating the top four riders, everything remained up for grabs heading into the iconic DH Men stage.

Rude ensured his return to Enduro would end with a medal, charging through the rough terrain to set the fastest time on the final test. Jamieson gave everything in pursuit of the title, finishing just five tenths of a second behind Rude, while Meier-Smith took third. Gilchrist’s fourth-place finish was enough to seal the rainbow jersey, four seconds ahead of Jamieson, with Rude taking bronze just three tenths further back.

The victory earned Gilchrist the second rainbow jersey of his career, following his UCI Pump Track World Championship title in 2024, and his first at the highest level of Enduro.

Following his victory, Gilchrist said: “This is the most iconic stage in Enduro. Racing down DH Men and then making the liaison back to the square, with the sun setting and my friends by my side, was just incredible. I’ve been able to call my family and my girlfriend back home, and everything I need is right here. It’s all amazing. This is my second rainbow jersey, and to win it in Enduro, which is my passion, makes it even more special. I love this sport.”

2026 UCI Mountain Bike Enduro World Championships – Men Elite results here.

Richter Wins Finale Thriller by a Single Second
Raphaela Richter claimed the biggest victory of her career as she secured her first UCI Enduro World Championship title in Finale Outdoor Region. The German arrived at the season’s showcase event in excellent form, having finished inside the top four at each of the final three UCI Enduro World Cup rounds, including two podium appearances. She also had fond memories of racing in Finale, having won the Enduro World Series event at the iconic venue 10 years earlier.

Richter drew on all her experience on the opening Megaroller test, a 6.69-kilometre stage featuring more than 900 metres of descending. The German immediately laid down a marker, opening an advantage of almost 10 seconds over French pair Isabeau Courdurier and Mélanie Pugin.

Ella Conolly (GBR) entered the UCI World Championships among the favourites after successfully defending her UCI Enduro World Cup overall title with three victories from six rounds. After conceding 17 seconds on the opening stage, however, the British rider had ground to make up. Conolly responded immediately, using her descending skills to win the second stage, Oribago, and claw back several seconds on her rivals.

Nadine Ellecosta, who had also stood on a UCI Enduro World Cup podium this season, then came to the fore on the newly created 1.73-kilometre Little Dog stage, setting the fastest time. Richter hit back on the short Groppo test to claim her second stage victory of the day and retain the overall lead, but her advantage over Courdurier was down to just four tenths of a second with two decisive stages remaining.

With 67 metres of climbing packed into its 4.13 kilometres, Blitz proved pivotal in the battle for the medals. Ellecosta strengthened her podium challenge by taking the stage win, three seconds ahead of Richter, to pile further pressure on the overall leader. Courdurier, meanwhile, conceded 12 seconds and dropped to third overall ahead of the final test.

The French rider responded in style on the iconic DH Men stage, setting the fastest time by six seconds over Pugin, with Richter and Ellecosta a further second back. But Richter had done just enough. The German held on to claim the rainbow jersey by a single second from Courdurier, while Ellecosta secured bronze just three seconds behind the new UCI Enduro World Champion.

The silver medal marked a remarkable result for Courdurier, coming just a year after she gave birth.

Following her victory, Richter said: “The day was pretty good. I was feeling calm and a little nervous in the morning, but not as much as I have at other points in my career. I know that as soon as I sit on the bike, everything will be fine, so I just tried to do my best. I’m always proud to be in the mix at any World Cup, but to have made it all the way to the top today, I honestly still can’t believe it.”

2026 UCI Mountain Bike Enduro World Championships – Women Elite results here.

Marti Montessinos Completes Stellar Season with Rainbow Jersey
Hugo Marti Montessinos continued his dominant season in the Men Junior category, adding the UCI Enduro World Championship title to his UCI Enduro World Cup overall crown. The Frenchman won three of the day’s six stages in Finale Outdoor Region to build a commanding advantage, while the battle for the remaining medals went all the way to the final stage.

The physically and technically demanding Megaroller opened proceedings, with its 6.69 kilometres immediately setting the tone for a closely fought contest. The top four riders were separated by just over two seconds, with Marti Montessinos setting the fastest time, only two tenths of a second ahead of fellow Frenchman Jules Janniaud (FRA). Nolan Weiss (CAN) and Harper Nelmes (AUS) were also firmly in contention after the opening test.

Marti Montessinos doubled up on the short and fast 930-metre Oribago stage. Nelmes and Weiss kept the pressure on the leader by finishing second and third respectively, while Janniaud conceded three seconds with the seventh-fastest time.

The newly created Little Dog stage shook up the order as Lois Eller (GER) went fastest, edging Janniaud by just two tenths of a second, with Marti Montessinos two seconds further back. Eller carried that momentum onto the short and punchy Groppo test, taking a second consecutive stage win, just five tenths of a second ahead of Marti Montessinos.

The Frenchman reasserted his authority on the physical 4.1-kilometre Blitz, producing a decisive performance to win the penultimate stage by almost 10 seconds. Janniaud kept his medal hopes firmly on track with the second fastest time, while Nelmes finished third.

The fight for the remaining podium places came down to the final DH Men stage. Weiss delivered when it mattered most, producing a superb run to win the fast final test by more than three seconds. Nelmes finished second on the stage, but the result saw him narrowly miss out on the podium as Weiss secured bronze. Janniaud held on to silver by less than two tenths of a second, while Marti Montessinos capped a dominant season by claiming the UCI Enduro World Championship title with a 13-second winning margin.

Following his victory, Marti Montessinos said: “It was so hard and physical. The first stage [Megaroller] was brutal. I managed to save more energy for stage five [Blitz] which was also really tough. Jules [Janniaud] was behind me and pushing me to ride faster. It’s insane.”

2026 UCI Mountain Bike Enduro World Championships – Men Junior results here.

Libnik Rules Again to Retain Rainbow Jersey in Finale
Nežka Libnik capped a dominant season in the Women Junior category by successfully defending her UCI Enduro World Championship title in Finale. The reigning UCI Enduro World Champion arrived in Italy having already claimed the 2026 UCI Enduro World Cup overall title and produced another commanding performance to retain the coveted rainbow jersey.

The gruelling 6.69-kilometre Megaroller provided the perfect platform for Libnik to launch her title defence. The Slovenian set the fastest time by 14 seconds over Daisy James (USA), while third-placed Bélinda Baudet (FRA) conceded 43 seconds to the leader.

Libnik continued to stamp her authority on the race, winning each of the next three stages, Oribago, Little Dog and Groppo, to steadily extend her advantage. With two stages remaining, she held a 27-second lead over James, with Baudet 54 seconds adrift in third.

The battle for bronze remained much closer, with Chloe Cres Clement (FRA) sitting just 13 seconds behind compatriot Baudet with two lengthy stages still to come. But on the demanding Blitz test, Libnik once again demonstrated her strength, taking another stage victory and adding a further 35 seconds to her advantage.

James and Baudet strengthened their grip on the remaining podium positions, although Cres Clement remained within striking distance of bronze, just 15 seconds back heading into the final stage. She threw everything at the final 2.3-kilometre DH Men test and was rewarded for her efforts, going 16 seconds faster than Baudet to snatch the bronze medal from her compatriot. James finished second on the stage to secure silver, while Libnik overcame a small crash to finish fourth and successfully defend her UCI Enduro World Championship title by a commanding 59 seconds.

Following her victory, Libnik said: “It was such an amazing race and very hard. The day started really well, although the first stage was very tough. I continued to have a good day, and then stage five [Blitz] was so hard, but we made it through. The sixth stage [DH Men] was so iconic. I just couldn’t follow my lines and I fell, but it was still pretty amazing. I’m really happy.”

2026 UCI Mountain Bike Enduro World Championships – Women Junior results here.

Fans can relive the weekend’s action through key moments shared across the UCI’s Instagram and YouTube channels. Dedicated Enduro race highlights will be published on YouTube, while the E-Enduro highlights can be watched here.

The weekend’s racing will also be broadcast on Eurosport on Friday, 23 October, and TNT Sports 4 on Saturday, 24 October.

For more information on the 2026 UCI Mountain Bike Enduro and E-Enduro World Championships, Finale Ligure, Liguria, visit the official website: events.finaleoutdoor.com

By scaling its tread design to the larger dimension, the new tire maximizes momentum retention, improves obstacle rollover, and increases overall traction and stability.

Available in Continental’s lightweight Race Casing and fast-rolling Rapid Compound, the Dubnital is engineered to boost rolling efficiency, while reducing rider fatigue on longer rides and rough terrain.

Alexander Haenke, Product Manager for MTB & Gravel at Continental Tires, said: “The growing interest in 32” wheels is clear, and our priority is ensuring riders have immediate access to Continental’s flagship tire technologies as new wheel sizes emerge. Choosing the Dubnital as our first 32” release allows us to support evolving setup preferences and frame designs right out of the gate.”

“As frame geometry and rider demands shift, we’re dedicated to building out specialized tire options that allow riders to get the absolute most out of this new, and increasingly upcoming format.”

The 32” Dubnital Race Rapid will be available globally in April 2027.

Continental Bicycle Tires
Continental is a worldwide leader in bicycle tire innovation with over 150 years of experience in the industry. Continental’s rigorous testing and their revolutionary technologies, such as the unbeatable Black Chili compound, have produced some of the most highly respected products on the market today. The Continental product family includes the flagship road tire Grand Prix 5000, the gravel-specific tire range Terra, and its range of MTB tires developed using Gripology, the science of grip, in collaboration with top pro-athletes.

Continental is a leading tire manufacturer and industry specialist. Founded in 1871, the company generated sales of €19.7 billion in 2025 and currently employs around 76,000 people in 54 countries and markets.

Tire solutions from the Tires group sector make mobility safer and smarter. Its premium portfolio encompasses car, truck, bus, two-wheel, and specialty tires as well as smart solutions and services for fleets and tire retailers. Continental has been delivering top performance for more than 150 years and is one of the world’s largest tire manufacturers. In fiscal 2025, the Tires group sector generated sales of 13.8 billion euros. Continental’s tire division employs more than 53,000 people worldwide and has 19 production and 16 development sites.

New for this year, there are two ways to get tickets. Cash at the door or in advance online. Gain exclusive access to the Blowout Sale by buying tickets in advance online before general admission begins at 10am. Product quantities are limited! All online ticket holders can access the Sale at 9:30am. Advance tickets are limited so purchase now and shop early.

Plus get a chance to win – your online ticket purchase automatically enters you to win a Wahoo KICKR CORE 2 with Zwift Cog and Click, valued at $899.99.

Explore a great lineup of bike shops and some of the best deals of the season—all in one place. Whether you’re looking for your next bike, upgrading your gear, or picking up a few essentials, the Bicycle Fall Blowout is a great place to get ready for the rides ahead.

Next season’s adventures start with a little planning today. Come browse, chat with the shops, and find what you need to make next year’s rides even better – the sale is on until 5pm!

Get your advance tickets here.

Two Senators, along with 16 Members of Parliament from every party, including two Ministers and a party leader, joined together in the nation’s capitol at Parliament Hill, to promote safe and secure cycling across the country and the funding needed to ensure it.

The celebration kicked off as Liberal Minister Julie Dabrusin and Senator Marty Deacon welcomed guests and spoke of the days when riding a bike was like a right of passage, and how cycling is woven into the fabric of Canadian communities coast to coast, including the importance of safe infrastructure.

Next up was the third annual Canadian Parliamentary Slow Bike Challenge on the Hill, where Secretary of State for Sport, Adam van Koeverden, took home the crown again, for the third year straight, by crossing the finish line dead last.

The gathering of around 150 cycling supporters then made their way to the Wellington Building for refreshments and light hors d’oeuvres.

Kate Walker, Board Chair at Vélo Canada Bikes, gave an overview of the National Active Transportation Strategy that began in 2021, and the Active Transportation Fund that was first established in 2024 with $400M by The Hon. Catherine McKenna, the former Minister of Infrastructure.

The initial $400M fund was flooded with over $3 billion in project applications by municipalities, testifying to the pent up demand for safe cycling infrastructure across Canada.

That funding led to over 320 projects being supported which included the building, or repairing, of over 200km of cycling infrastructure across the country.

Working behind the scenes, Vélo Canada Bikes was happy and relieved when Gregor Robertson, the new and current Minister of Housing and Infrastructure, announced a $500 million renewal of the AT Fund along with the first project, the expansion and update to the Riverside Trail in Tecumseh, ON.

Yet Walker pointed out that the original National Active Transportation Strategy expires this year and urgently needs to be renewed and modernized, in order to see more cycling projects successfully approved.

The event also recognized outstanding organizations and individuals with the Arnos National Cycling Advocacy Awards as Samuel Benoit, Executive Director at Vélo Canada Bikes, announced the four winners.

National Cycling Advocate of the Year Award: Paths for People (Edmonton, AB) for their volunteer-led, data-driven advocacy that secured a historic $100M city investment in active transportation and continues to defend local safe streets.

Inclusion in Cycling Award: Vélo Québec (Montréal, QC) for their groundbreaking Toutes à vélo program, which has empowered over 2,200 women across seven Quebec municipalities to overcome mobility barriers and embrace cycling.

Industry Award: Urban Racks (British Columbia) for providing innovative secure bike infrastructure across Canada while actively supporting community initiatives to champion everyday cycling.

Lifetime Achievement Award: Awarded to The Hon. Catherine McKenna (Toronto, ON) for her transformative leadership as former Minister of Infrastructure in establishing Canada’s first National Active Transportation Strategy and landmark $400-million dedicated fund.

Many other notable politicians were on hand at this year’s Bike Day on the Hill in recognition of their support for cycling including Conservative MP Gabriel Hardy, NDP MP Gord Johns, Bloc MP Andréanne Larouche, and Green Party Leader Elizabeth May.

As the event wrapped up Walker and Benoit thanked all of the parliamentarians, volunteers, sponsors and attendees for “…making it another amazing celebration of cycling at the heart of our democracy. When politicians work together across party lines, real progress happens.”

For more information on Vélo Canada Bikes please visit here.

Since 1994, Paris to Ancaster has challenged thousands of riders on a unique point-to-point course across Southern Ontario. Inspired by the legendary Paris-Roubaix, P2A combines gravel roads, farm lanes, trails, mud and some memorable climbs on the journey toward the finish in Ancaster.

But P2A isn’t just for elite cyclists. The 2027 event offers three distances designed to give riders of different experience and fitness levels an opportunity to take on the P2A challenge:

P2A Cento – approximately 110 km
The ultimate P2A challenge, beginning at the Paris Fairgrounds and travelling all the way to Ancaster.

P2A Classic – approximately 70 km
The signature P2A experience, attracting seasoned competitors and recreational riders looking to test themselves on one of Ontario’s most memorable cycling courses.

P2A Brève – approximately 45 km
A shorter—but still unmistakably P2A—experience and an ideal introduction for first-time participants ready to take on a new challenge.

“Paris to Ancaster has always been about more than racing,” said John Thorpe, founder of the Paris to Ancaster Bike Race. “It’s about setting a goal, getting outside, training through the winter and sharing the experience with thousands of other riders. Whether you’re competing for a top finish or simply want to say you conquered P2A, there’s a place for you on the start line.”

More than three decades after the first race, P2A continues to bring together competitive cyclists, gravel enthusiasts, recreational riders, groups of friends and people looking for a new fitness goal.

The event also has a strong connection to the communities along its route and a longstanding commitment to giving back. P2A participants and supporters have helped raise more than $400,000 for St. Joseph’s Healthcare, adding an important community impact to race weekend.

Registration for the 2027 Paris to Ancaster Bike Race opens October 13, 2026. Race day is Sunday, April 25, 2027.

For race information and registration, visit here.

The Velora family represents a new era of K-Series road tires, with the Velora Endurance launching first and the Velora Race coming soon. Designed to deliver a balance of speed, durability, and ride quality, Velora brings premium road performance to riders who want to ride more and worry less.

Engineered for Durability Without Compromise
The Velora Endurance features a new puncture-resistant base layer designed to increase durability by 35% while maintaining the rolling efficiency and ride quality expected from a premium road tire. The Endurance casing provides a smooth, controlled ride while adding protection against flats and the demands of everyday road riding.

High-Performance Road Compound
At the heart of the Velora Endurance is Kenda’s K-Series high-performance road compound, engineered for low rolling resistance and excellent tread wear resistance. The compound delivers a 27% improvement in tread wear compared to the Kriterium, providing longer-lasting performance for riders who put serious mileage on their tires.

Advanced Puncture Protection
The Velora Endurance uses a layered construction designed to provide protection where riders need it most. A puncture-resistant base layer sits beneath the center tread, targeting foreign-debris punctures while minimizing the impact on rolling resistance, handling, and overall ride feel.

Designed for Speed and Confidence
A smooth center contact patch provides efficient rolling and speed, while subtle shoulder siping delivers confident cornering grip and improved traction in wet conditions. The optimized sipes help channel water away from the contact patch, providing predictable handling across changing road conditions.

The clean, simplified tread pattern also improves tread wear characteristics while maintaining the ride feel and cornering performance expected from a premium road tire.

Tubeless Ready. Everyday Reliable.
The Velora Endurance is designed for effortless tubeless-ready setup, combining dependable puncture protection with exceptional tread life and rolling efficiency. The result is a road tire built to deliver consistent performance from daily training rides to long-distance adventures.

A New Standard for Endurance Road Riding
The K-Series Velora Endurance brings together premium road performance, advanced puncture protection, and long-lasting durability in one purpose-built tire. Designed for riders who want the freedom to ride farther with confidence, Velora Endurance delivers the performance to keep moving and the protection to worry less.

Learn more here or follow @kendabicycle_us and @kendabicycle_eu on Instagram.

At just 19 years old, rookie Vermette delighted the home crowd by becoming only the second American to claim the Men’s Elite UCI Downhill World Cup overall, following a dramatic final weekend of racing.

Whiteface Mountain provided a spectacular autumnal backdrop as the 2026 WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series reached its conclusion. The two-kilometer, machine-built downhill course evolved throughout the weekend, with wet conditions earlier in the week giving way to a progressively drier and faster track. Technical wooded sections combined with high-speed open terrain to deliver a demanding test of skill, precision and nerve.

Bouladou produced a fearless run to claim her maiden Women’s Elite UCI Downhill World Cup victory, denying Höll a historic seventh win of the season. In the men’s race, Meier-Smith repeated his triumph at the same venue 12 months earlier to secure the second UCI Downhill World Cup victory of his career.

There were maiden winners in the Junior categories too, as Ryder Wilson (Team High Country) and Tilly Boadle (Commencal Schwalbe by Les Orres) celebrated their first UCI World Cup victories. The overall titles had already been secured by Jonty Williamson (Yeti / Fox Factory Race Team) and Aletha Ostgaard (Canyon DH Racing).

The Team standings went down to the wire in the final round, with Canyon DH Racing taking the Lake Placid victory on 73 points after finishing level on points with COMMENCAL/MUC-OFF by Riding Addiction. Across the season, however, COMMENCAL/MUC-OFF by Riding Addiction proved the most consistent, securing the overall Team title.

UCI Downhill World Cup | Team standings here.

Vermette Makes History as Meier-Smith Doubles Up in Lake Placid
Luke Meier-Smith (Giant Factory Off-Road Team DH) made it back-to-back victories at Lake Placid, winning the Men’s Elite UCI Downhill World Cup for a second consecutive season. Meanwhile, rookie Asa Vermette (Frameworks Racing/TRP) became only the second rider in history to claim the Men’s Elite overall title in his debut season, following in the footsteps of French legend Nicolas Vouilloz.

Vermette was made to work for the crown, holding off a final-round challenge from Jordan Williams (Specialized Gravity) after a dramatic conclusion to the season.

Heading into the weekend, the overall title was a three-way battle between Vermette, Williams and Amaury Pierron (COMMENCAL/MUC-OFF by Riding Addiction). The pressure showed during qualifying, with Pierron crashing twice and failing to progress to the final, ending his hopes of the overall title, while Vermette was forced to battle his way through Q2.

UCI Downhill World Champion Jackson Goldstone (Santa Cruz Syndicate) was another big name left watching the final from the sidelines after also going out in Q2. With Pierron eliminated, all eyes were on Vermette as the 19-year-old looked to lay down a benchmark time and put himself in position to secure the overall crown.

Despite struggling through the opening technical section, the American fought back strongly and recorded the fastest speed of the day, clocking 72km/h through the speed trap. Vermette’s time was eventually good enough for eighth place and, with title rival Williams finishing sixth, the Frameworks Racing/TRP rider had done enough to be crowned overall winner.

Meier-Smith had hoped his maiden UCI Downhill World Cup victory at Lake Placid 12 months earlier would prove a breakthrough moment. However, the Australian endured a challenging 2026 campaign, arriving at the final round with just one top 10 finish to his name. Back on a Whiteface Mountain course that clearly plays to his strengths, Meier-Smith rediscovered his best form, powering to victory in 3:08.38.

Andreas Kolb (Santa Cruz Syndicate) mastered the second half of the course to repeat his runner-up finish from Les Gets, Haute-Savoie (France), earlier in the season, finishing 1.3 seconds behind Meier-Smith.

Ryan Pinkerton (Mondraker Factory Racing DH) had qualified fastest the previous day but was unable to start after crashing during the morning practice session. In his absence, Lachlan Stevens-McNab (Trek – Unbroken DH) was the final rider out of the start gate and produced a strong closing section to snatch third place.

Following his victory, Meier-Smith said: “It’s crazy. It hasn’t really been the season I had been hoping for. To turn it around at the end and get another win here is just insane. I was getting a little bit of doubt in my head, not sure if I could do it again. But I just gave it my all. I didn’t have anything left at the bottom. I think that made the difference.

“For me, it’s the best track. Coming from Australia, we have a lot of tracks that are pretty flat and physical. You’ve got to carry your own speed and not just manage it. That’s sort of my strength, and I think this track has that pretty well. I think that’s what makes the difference for me here.”

Vermette finished the season at the top of the overall standings with 1,442 points, 66 ahead of Williams in second, with Pierron completing the top three.

Reflecting on his achievement, Vermette said: “It’s insane. I dreamed of it at the beginning of the season, so for it to happen is crazy. It has been a crazy season, with ups and downs. I don’t really have any words.”

On the nerves before his final run, Vermette added: “My head was spinning. Before I dropped in, I was just like, ‘Just ride your bike.’ It was so hard to lock in with all those nerves. I was riding tight, but I was glad it was good enough to get down.”

UCI Downhill World Cup | Men Elite standings here.

Bouladou Denies Höll History with Maiden Lake Placid Victory
Lisa Bouladou (Santa Cruz Burgtec By Goodman) saved her best for last, producing a fearless run in the season finale to claim her maiden Women’s Elite UCI Downhill World Cup victory. The 21-year-old had already shown her form one week earlier at Whistler Mountain Bike Park (British Columbia, Canada), where she qualified fastest before securing a career-best third place.

The French rider again topped qualifying in Lake Placid before going one better when it mattered most, setting a winning time of 3:36.03. Her victory denied UCI Downhill World Champion Valentina Höll  the chance to make history in the final round. A seventh victory of the season would have seen Höll equal the record held by Anne-Caroline Chausson and Rachel Atherton for the most wins in a single season.

Starting second from last, the Austrian looked in formidable form as she flew through the technical sections of the Whiteface Mountain course. However, a strong headwind over the final jumps visibly disrupted her momentum, costing the overall winner valuable speed and time as she ultimately settled for second.

Tahnée Seagrave (Orbea FMD Racing) missed the early part of the season after suffering an elbow injury at the opening round, but the British rider had shown increasing consistency in recent races, including two seventh-place finishes. Seagrave drew on all her experience and power on the demanding Lake Placid course to take a close third, finishing just six tenths of a second behind Bouladou.

It was also a day for experience to shine, with Myriam Nicole (COMMENCAL/MUC-OFF by Riding Addiction) lining up for the 100th UCI Downhill World Cup race of her illustrious career. The French rider had amassed 66 UCI World Cup podiums but has been searching for another victory since 2024. She narrowly missed out on the podium on this occasion, finishing fourth, with Marine Cabirou (Canyon DH Racing) completing the top five.

Away from the fight for the race victory, the battle for second place in the overall standings provided another layer of drama. Gloria Scarsi (MS-Racing) arrived in Lake Placid holding second but, after being forced through Q2 the previous day, could only manage 11th in the final. That opened the door for Harriet Harnden (AON Racing), whose sixth-place finish was enough to secure second overall. Canada’s Gracey Hemstreet (Norco x adidas Race Division) completed the overall podium after finishing seventh, pushing Scarsi down to fourth in the final standings.

Following her breakthrough victory, Bouladou said: “It was just crazy. At the start gate, I was like, ‘It’s my last run of the year, so I need to give it my all,’ and that’s what I did. My goal this season was to finish with as many top 10s as possible. And last week, being on the podium was already crazy. But winning a World Cup, I can rest in peace this winter.”

Höll, meanwhile, wrapped up the overall title with a commanding 1,085-point advantage. She said: “That was quite hard. I was trying to chase history and messed it up today. I was quite stoked with my run until the open section. There was so much headwind. Unfortunately, it’s an outdoor sport and it’s part of the game. I’m happy with my season. It’s pretty insane to get these results.”

UCI Downhill World Cup | Women Elite standings here.

Boadle Ends Season on a High With Maiden World Cup Victory
Tilly Boadle celebrated a breakthrough first Women’s Junior UCI Downhill World Cup victory for Australia, capping a strong end to the season. The Junior UCI Downhill World Champion had hit form in recent weeks, finishing third at Whistler Mountain Bike Park just seven days earlier. On the rough and demanding Lake Placid course, Boadle pulled out all the stops and showed no fear on her way to a winning time of 3:40.3.

New Zealand’s Indy Deavoll (Stoic Racing) also ended her season on a high, claiming her maiden UCI Downhill World Cup podium with second place, just 2.3 seconds behind Boadle.

All eyes were on fastest qualifier and overall winner Aletha Ostgaard as the American went in search of a home victory and a sixth Women’s Junior UCI Downhill World Cup win of the season. Ostgaard lost time through the technical wooded section at the top of the course before regaining speed through the middle. However, a slip on the loose terrain cost her valuable momentum, and she eventually finished third, 4.3 seconds behind the winner.

Following her victory, Boadle said: “I honestly can’t believe it. I had such a near-miss up there. My brain just clicked, I went full on and knew I had to push. I really wanted it this week. To do it wearing the [rainbow] stripes just doesn’t feel real. I dislocated my shoulder and every race has been hard since then. I took the risk of not having surgery in the middle of the season and just had to keep going, no matter what. I’ve got an incredible physio and it has all worked out. I’m going to have surgery next week.”

Ostgaard had already secured the overall title heading into the final round and ended the season with a 175-point winning margin. She said: “That was not the run that I’d hoped for at all. I came out of the start gate, hit my shoulder really hard and I felt like I couldn’t recover. I tried to push harder and ended up nearly crashing really big again. I was like, ‘Keep it consistent and make it to the bottom and hope for a podium.’ That sums up my season. Even during runs that I’ve not been super-proud of, I put down a time and get on the podium. I wanted to show the US what I could do on home soil, but that’s racing and everyone is super-competitive.”

UCI Downhill World Cup | Women Junior standings here.

Canadian Wilson Bows Out of Junior Ranks With First UCI World Cup Win
Canada’s Ryder Wilson (Team High Country) signed off from the Men’s Junior UCI Downhill World Cup in perfect fashion, claiming his maiden victory in his final race before stepping up to the Elite ranks next season. The Canadian had found his best form during the final two North American rounds, finishing fourth at Whistler Mountain Bike Park the previous week.

After qualifying second fastest on Saturday, Wilson carried impressive speed through the lower sections of the demanding Lake Placid course aboard his belt-driven bike, stopping the clock at 3:15.9 to secure a breakthrough victory.

Malik Boatwright (Continental Atherton) delivered another consistent performance to finish runner-up, two seconds behind Wilson, while fastest qualifier Noé Forlin completed the podium in third.

Overall winner Jonty Williamson (Yeti / Fox Factory Race Team) missed the North American rounds after fracturing his wrist at the UCI Downhill World Championships. However, seven victories earlier in the season had already put the New Zealander in a commanding position, and he ultimately secured the overall title by 64 points.

Following his victory, Wilson said: “I was just feeling the flow out there. From the first corner, I was like, ‘Okay, settle into it, get the top good, and then hammer on the pedals.’ I think it worked pretty well. I honestly can’t believe it. I’ve been working at this for so many years. I’ve been so close in so many races, but I’ve struggled with over-riding a fair bit. These last two races have been the best ones yet. I’m hoping to carry that momentum through the off-season and into next year, because it’ll be my first year in Elite, racing the big dogs.”

Reflecting on his overall victory, Williamson said: “It’s just unreal, to be honest. I didn’t really think I’d win that many races coming into this season. I’m just so stoked with what I’ve achieved and hopefully I can carry that momentum into the off-season and get some good training in for next year. My recovery is going well. I’m back on the trail bike at the moment, and hopefully in another couple of weeks I’ll be back riding downhill. For now, the plan is just to chill out for a bit with my mates at home, then head down to Queenstown for the summer and get some training done there.”

UCI Downhill World Cup | Men Junior standings here.

Golden Arrow Awards Set to Celebrate a Spectacular 2026 Season
Lake Placid Olympic Sites brings the curtain down on a spectacular 2026 WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series, with riders now set to take a well-earned break before turning their attention to winter training and preparations for the 2027 season.

Before then, the mountain bike community will come together tonight at the Olympic Centre in Lake Placid for the inaugural Golden Arrow Awards. In a more glamorous setting away from the race tape, the overall winners and top teams will lift their trophies, while awards will also be presented for Best Event, Best Rookie and Best Professional Photography of the Year.

The evening will also see the Legacy Award recognise the project that best embodies the values of the WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series’ CSR roadmap, Leave No Trace, Leave a Legacy, while four new inductees will be welcomed into the Mountain Bike Hall of Fame.

More information on the Golden Arrow Awards ceremony is available here.

Fiona Schibler (Bike Team Solothurn) and Naël Rouffiac claim breakthrough U23 UCI World Cup wins in Lake Placid, as Specialized Factory Racing secure the overall team title and lift The Summit, the first-ever UCI Mountain Bike World Cup team trophy.

(Lake Placid, NY) The final endurance race of the 2026 WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series brought riders to the spectacular Lake Placid Olympic Sites, with the action centred around Mt Van Hoevenberg. A fast, punchy course packed with rock gardens and breathtaking descents, set against the golden light and autumn colours of the Adirondacks, delivered tight group racing and thrilling finishes across the categories.

After a gruelling season, the final round provided one last physical test for tired bodies and a stern challenge for equipment, with punctures derailing the hopes of several riders.

Charlie Aldridge (Cannondale Factory Racing) and Sina Frei (Specialized Factory Racing) held their nerve to claim sprint victories in the concluding round of this year’s UCI Cross-country Olympic (XCO) World Cup. Meanwhile, Jenny Rissveds (Canyon XC Racing) and Luca Martin (Cannondale Factory Racing) were rewarded for their consistency across the season with the overall titles.

The Under-23 races brought fresh faces to the top step of the podium, as Naël Rouffiac (Origine Racing Division) and Fiona Schibler (Bike Team Solothurn) celebrated maiden UCI World Cup victories. Valentina Corvi (Canyon XC Racing) and Paul Schehl (Lexware Mountainbike Team), meanwhile, capped off impressive seasons by securing the overall titles.

Cannondale Factory Racing rounded out a stellar weekend with third place in the Team standings, while Specialized Factory Racing secured the overall team title, lifting The Summit, the first-ever UCI Mountain Bike World Cup team trophy, after winning every round of the season bar the finale.

UCI XCO World Cup | Team standings here.

Aldridge and Martin Deliver a Dream Farewell for Cannondale
Charlie Aldridge held his nerve in a thrilling sprint finish to edge out Filippo Colombo (SCOTT-SRAM MTB Racing Team) and claim victory in the Men’s Elite UCI XCO World Cup season finale.

With Cannondale Factory Racing set to disband at the end of the season, its riders rose to the occasion in their final outing. Aldridge claimed his second UCI XCO World Cup victory, 12 months after taking his maiden win at the 2025 season finale in Mont-Sainte-Anne (Canada). Team-mate Luca Martin completed a memorable farewell for the team by securing the overall titles in both XCC and XCO.

Adrien Boichis (Specialized Factory Racing) missed both North American rounds due to road racing commitments but retained second place in the overall standings. Third place, however, was still up for grabs heading into the finale, with the battle going all the way to the last lap.

The rough terrain took its toll on riders and equipment throughout an incident-packed race. Bjorn Riley (SCOTT-SRAM MTB Racing Team) saw his hopes of securing third overall come to an end after a difficult race that he was unable to finish. With Boichis absent, Martín Vidaurre Kossmann carried Specialized Factory Racing’s hopes in a leading group that gradually whittled down as the decisive final lap approached.

Aldridge was determined to control proceedings from the front as the leaders charged up the Mt Van Hoevenberg hillside, but Colombo had other ideas. The Swiss rider squeezed through the smallest of gaps before powering through the rock garden to take the initiative.

Aldridge, however, had one final move. Taking an alternative line, the Cannondale Factory Racing rider regained the lead heading into the final section before launching a long sprint for the line. Colombo drew alongside him on the asphalt finishing straight, but Aldridge dug deep to hold on for victory, with Colombo second and Kossmann completing the podium in third.

Following his victory, Aldridge said: “I finally won a sprint! I’ve gone too early, I’ve gone too late, and this time it was perfect. What a way to finish the year. It’s the last race for Cannondale Factory Racing, so it feels great to end on a high.”

Meanwhile, Martin wrapped up the overall title with a 380-point advantage over Boichis in second, with Kossmann taking third overall. Martin said: “It’s so good to be on the podium, and taking the overall is really special. It’s the last day for this team, and we finished on such a high. Having three riders in the top five shows what a great day it was for us. It was pretty tough for me, but I’m really happy with the way it ended.”

UCI XCO World Cup | Men Elite standings here.

Frei Edges Berta in a Thriller as Rissveds Secures and Historic Title
Sina Frei held on by the narrowest of margins to edge Martina Berta (Origine Racing Division) in a thrilling sprint finish, while Jenny Rissveds did enough to secure the overall title.

Berta arrived at the season finale as the rider in form, having completed the XCO-XCC double in Soldier Hollow, Utah (USA) two weeks earlier. Samara Maxwell (Decathlon Ford Racing Team), meanwhile, continued her return to form after missing the start of the season. Despite being held up and forced to dismount through the rock garden on the opening lap, Maxwell fought her way back into the leading group.

The technical Lake Placid Olympic Sites course proved unforgiving for both riders and equipment. Rebecca Henderson (Orbea FOX Factory Team), competing in her final UCI XCO World Cup, suffered a mechanical, with Loana Lecomte (BMC Factory Racing) also seeing her race hampered by mechanical trouble. Ronja Blöchlinger (LIV Factory Racing), meanwhile, saw her hopes ended by a crash in the rock garden.

Overall leader Rissveds was unable to reproduce the form that had taken her to three UCI XCO World Cup victories this season and gradually slipped back through the field but remained on course to secure the overall crown.

At the front, Frei took control as the race entered its decisive final lap. When Berta became tangled with Maxwell, the Specialized Factory Racing rider appeared to have opened the gap she needed. But Berta refused to let the victory slip away, charging back on the descent and putting herself within striking distance for the sprint to the line.

Berta launched one final charge, but Frei had just enough left to hold her off and claim her third UCI XCO World Cup victory of the season.

Following her victory, Frei said: “Starting the season with a win and finishing it with a win is incredible. I was sprinting full gas and I could see Martina’s wheel coming. I just pushed the bike towards the line, and I’m so happy it worked. Winning in the World Champion’s jersey is incredible. My first World Cup win came in the team jersey, the second in the European Champion’s jersey, and now the third in the World Champion’s jersey. I just knew I had to push over the top of the climbs, then let the brakes go and try to close the gaps on the descents.”

Meanwhile, an 11th place finish was enough for Rissveds to secure the overall title, becoming the first Swedish athlete to win the UCI XCO World Cup. After securing the overall title, Rissveds said: “It’s really nice. The level is incredibly high at the moment, and compared to last year it’s much faster. The racing is a lot tighter. The other teams have done their homework over the winter, and that’s what we have to do to keep up with them in the coming years.”

UCI XCO World Cup | Women Elite standings here.

SCHIBLER STORMS TO FIRST UCI WORLD CUP WIN AS CORVI TAKES THE CROWN
Fiona Schibler (Bike Team Solothurn) delivered a composed performance beyond her years to claim her maiden Women’s Under-23 UCI XCO World Cup victory.

Valentina Corvi (Canyon XC Racing) arrived at the season finale with an unassailable lead in the overall standings, having won seven of the eight UCI XCO World Cup rounds. However, a heavy crash in the previous day’s UCI Cross-country Short Track (XCC) World Cup ruled the Italian out of the final race of the season. Her absence opened the door for a new winner, with Katrin Embacher (KTM Factory MTB Team) the only other rider in the category to have claimed a UCI XCO World Cup victory this season.

Schibler endured a difficult start, losing 15 seconds on the opening lap, but kept her composure and steadily worked her way back into contention. By the second lap, the Swiss rider had bridged across to compatriots Monique Halter (Thömus maxon) and Anina Hutter at the front of the race. Lisa Kristine Jorde and Canadian Rafaelle Carrier (Trinity Racing) were also part of the early leading group as an intriguing battle began to unfold.

Schibler made her decisive move midway through the race, lifting the pace and quickly opening a gap that her rivals were unable to close. Behind, the battle for the remaining podium places went down to the final lap, with Jorde finishing strongly to secure second, just four seconds ahead of Hutter in third.

Despite missing the race, Corvi’s commanding advantage was enough to secure the overall title by 433 points. Schibler’s victory elevated her to second in the final standings, with Jorde completing the overall podium in third.

Speaking after her maiden UCI XCO World Cup victory, Schibler said: “It means a lot to me. To win the last race of the season is so special. I had a really bad start and was far behind, so I had to give it everything. Lap after lap, I found my rhythm and flow, and it was so cool to ride here. I knew today was really important for the overall because it was so tight behind Valentina [Corvi]. I knew I just had to go for it.”

Overall winner Corvi added: “It was strange to be out today. It was the best choice considering how I felt this morning. I’m happy to win the overall. It wasn’t the way I wanted to close out the season, but sometimes it’s like this.”

UCI XCO World Cup | Women U23 standings here.

ROUFFIAC CLAIMS MAIDEN WIN AS SCHEHL CELEBRATES OVERALL TITLE
Naël Rouffiac (Origine Racing Division) clinched his maiden Men’s Under-23 UCI XCO World Cup victory, after overcoming Benjamin Krüger in a sprint finish. The UCI XCO World Champion in the age category finished runner-up two weeks ago in Soldier Hollow.

He was joined in a four-rider leading group with overall series winner Paul Schehl (Lexware Mountainbike Team), Krüger and Alix André Gallis (Decathlon Ford Racing Team). Disaster struck for Schehl at the midway point when a crash resulted in a broken wheel and a change dropping him down the order.

The penultimate lap saw Rouffiac and Krüger pull clear of Gallis as they battled out for victory. It was the Origine Racing Division rider who prevailed, while Krüger was edged into second and Gallis third.

Speaking following his win Rouffiac said: “I’m so happy. To finish the season like this with the jersey is incredible. I felt good today and managed to stay at the front with the strong riders. Benjamin [Krüger] was really strong and we pushed hard on the last lap. I’m not a big sprinter, but I was on his wheel and managed to take the win in the sprint”.

Meanwhile, Schehl battled back to finish 33rd and won the overall title, ahead of Thibaut François Baudry (Canyon CX Racing) in second and Nicholas Halter (Thömus Akros-Youngstars) third.

Schehl said: “I crashed and broke some spokes, so I had to change wheels. I didn’t want to give up, so I kept going at my own pace. I felt really strong today, but I made a mistake and it wasn’t the way I wanted to end the season. Still, looking back, I’m really happy with what I achieved this year.”

UCI XCO World Cup | Men U23 standings here.

The 2026 WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series concludes at Whiteface Mountain on Sunday with downhill riders bringing a close to the season. Ryan Pinkerton (Mondraker Factory Racing DH) and Lisa Bouladou (Santa Cruz Burgtec By Goodman) will be the last riders out of the gate, as Asa Vermette (Frameworks Racing/TRP) and Jordan Williams (Specialized Gravity) prepare for a decisive Men’s Elite overall title showdown and Aletha Ostgaard (Canyon DH Racing) and Noé Forlin lead the Junior charge. Read the qualifying report here.

Berta made it back-to-back XCC victories, underlining her status as one of the breakthrough riders of 2026 and securing third place in the overall standings. Vidaurre, meanwhile, carried his late-season form into Lake Placid following his XCO victory at Soldier Hollow, Utah (USA). His win also marked a third consecutive Men Elite XCC victory at Lake Placid Olympic Sites for Specialized Factory Racing, following Victor Koretzky in 2024 and Christopher Blevins in 2025.
 
The racing also brought a nail-biting Women Elite UCI XCC World Cup overall battle to a close, with Sina Frei (Specialized Factory Racing) edging Jenny Rissveds (Canyon XC Racing) after a season-long fight for the title.
 
Luca Martin (Cannondale Factory Racing), meanwhile, was confirmed as the Men Elite UCI XCC World Cup overall winner shortly before racing got underway. His closest rival, and the only rider still mathematically able to overtake him, Mathis Azzaro (Origine Factory Racing), withdrew from the event due to a lack of form.
 
Earlier in the day, the U23 XCC races delivered maiden UCI World Cup victories for Bethany-Ann Jackson and Alix André Gallis (Decathlon Ford Racing Team).

Berta Braves The Mud as Frei Seals UCI XCC World Cup Overall Crown
In the build-up to the Women Elite XCC race, all eyes were on Sina Frei and Jenny Rissveds, with the pair battling not only for victory on the day but also for the overall title. Frei’s advantage in the standings meant the Swiss rider only needed a top three finish to seal the crown, while Rissveds had to win and hope Frei finished off the podium.

The pair set the pace from the gun, with Berta and Evie Richards (Trek-Unbroken XC) also part of the leading group. The conditions added an element of chaos with the rain leaving the corners greasy, the rock garden slippery and riders struggling for traction.

By lap three, a lead group of eight had broken clear, with Rissveds setting a fierce tempo at the front. The pace proved too much for Jolanda Neff (Cannondale Factory Racing), who lost contact with the group.

Two laps later, the group had swelled from eight to 11 as three riders, including Sammie Maxwell (Decathlon Ford Factory Racing), rejoined the fight following a lull in the attacks. At the front, however, Rissveds, Frei and an energised Berta continued to set the tone.

The race soon settled into a familiar pattern, with Frei upping the pace at the end of the start/finish straight to lead into the technical section, before Rissveds clawed back the advantage on the course’s bobsleigh-inspired descent.

That pattern continued until the penultimate lap, when Berta finally showed her hand. The Italian moved up to second before attacking as the leaders took the bell for the final lap, setting a pace that only Rissveds could follow.

The Origine Racing Division rider maintained her advantage through the rock garden and remained composed despite having Rissveds, the most successful Women Elite XCC rider of all time, right on her wheel. Berta entered the final corner with a bike-length advantage and refused to relent in the drag race to the line, holding off Rissveds to claim her second UCI XCC World Cup victory in North America.

Rissveds was forced to settle for second, while Frei crossed the line in third, enough for the Swiss rider to come out on top in their season-long battle and secure the overall title by just 60 points.

Speaking after the race, Martina Berta said: “It’s insane. I think I still have to process what happened two weeks ago. To do it again today is just amazing. I’m so happy. Not only because of the results themselves, but being here and winning three World Cups means I’ve taken a really big step forward. Most of all, I’m so happy and grateful to everyone who has worked with me, not only on days like today, but also through the hard days. They’re the reason why I’m here.”

Speaking after the race, Sina Frei said: “It’s really amazing. I don’t know what to say, but it’s insane that I managed to keep it together from the first straight to the last. I can be really proud, and it was fun to race here. I tried not to think about [the title], but it was always somewhere in my mind. In conditions like today, the equipment is even more important. One little slip can cost you the overall. I had to push as hard as I could, stay at the front, avoid mistakes, stay out of trouble and give it everything I had.”

UCI XCC World Cup | Women Elite standings

Vidaurre Powers to First XCC Win as Martin Wraps Up Overall
Like the Women Elite competition, the Men Elite overall title was still up for grabs heading into the final round, with Martin and Azzaro locked in a two-way battle for the crown. The suspense ended before the racing even began, however, after Azzaro withdrew from the weekend, explaining that his body “is not fit to race at World Cup level.”

But Vidaurre and Luca Schwarzbauer (Canyon XC Racing) had plenty of drama of their own in store, producing a thrilling battle in the wet and slippery conditions.

It was Schwarzbauer who lit the touchpaper, with the German XCC champion setting the pace from the start. Martin, meanwhile, sat back in 12th position, while Bjorn Riley (SCOTT-SRAM MTB Racing Team) was also among the contenders.

Two laps later, Vidaurre and Charlie Aldridge (Cannondale Factory Racing) had joined Schwarzbauer at the head of the race, glued to the German’s back wheel. By the halfway point, European champion Aldridge took the initiative, leading through the rock garden and stretching the seven-rider front group. But the Brit’s WHOOP live data suggested he was already deep in the red and, with four laps still remaining, the question was whether he had made his move too soon.

The decisive attack came a lap later. Schwarzbauer accelerated into the final corner, with Vidaurre the only rider able to follow. The Chilean then launched a move of his own as they crossed the start/finish line, and the pair quickly opened a gap over a chasing trio led by David List (Decathlon Ford Factory Racing).

Six seconds soon became double figures, making it increasingly clear that victory would come down to Schwarzbauer or Vidaurre. And when Specialized Factory Racing’s rider surged again at the start of the final lap, the elastic finally snapped. Vidaurre powered through the final Short Track lap of the season, opening a comfortable advantage that allowed him to negotiate the churned-up course cleanly. He crossed the line to claim his maiden UCI XCC World Cup victory, celebrating in style.

Schwarzbauer followed shortly behind and immediately congratulated his rival on his breakthrough Short Track win, while Filippo Colombo (SCOTT-SRAM MTB Racing Team) timed his race well to secure the final place on the podium.

Martin crossed the line in fourth, sealing the UCI XCC World Cup overall title without winning a single round during the season.

Speaking after the race, Vidaurre said: “Before this, I used to hate Short Track, but when you’re in good shape and you’re at the front with a good guy like Luca [Schwarzbauer], it makes the race so special. More than winning, for me, being out front with him with three laps to go made it such a special way to win. I was thinking, if I don’t win, I don’t care. It was so good. I’m so happy to get my first win like that. It was so special.”

Overall winner Luca Martin said: “It’s cool. There was a lot of pressure before this race because it would have been a nice battle with Mathis [Azzaro]. In the end, he wasn’t here, but we stayed focused and tried to push hard in the race. It wasn’t the race I expected today. There were a lot of crashes at the front, but I’m still happy with the overall.”

UCI XCC World Cup | Men Elite standings

Jackson Takes First XCC Win as Corvi Closes Out Title-Winning Season
The opening race of the day saw the Women U23 field take on the New York course for a fast and frantic Short Track showdown. Valentina Corvi (Canyon XC Racing) had already secured the overall title, but the Italian was looking to cap a podium-packed season with a fourth victory.

It wasn’t to be for Corvi, however. She crashed out of the lead group on lap five and was forced to retire, leaving her title-winning tally at 776 points. Her exit only intensified the five-way battle for second in the overall standings, which had been led by Lisa Kristine Jorde.

Heading into the final lap, Jorde sat second wheel behind Anina Hutter in a nine-rider lead group, but the decisive move came from further back. Bethany-Ann Jackson launched a powerful attack, with only Rafaelle Carrier (Trinity Racing), Makena Kellerman and Bloeme Kalis (KMC Nukeproof MTB Racing Team) able to respond.

Jackson did enough to hold off the chase and claim her maiden Women U23 UCI XCC World Cup victory. Carrier crossed the line second, a result that propelled the Canadian from fifth to second in the overall standings, while home favourite Kellerman completed the podium and secured third overall.

Bethany-Ann Jackson said: “It’s incredible. One of my goals this year was to get a podium. I made the podium at Worlds, and now I’ve done it in the World Cup too. I couldn’t be happier. I don’t know what changed [during the off-season], but I couldn’t be happier. I’m so excited [about tomorrow’s Women U23 UCI XCO World Cup]. The course is wicked and, if there’s a bit of mud, that only helps me.”

Overall winner Valentina Corvi said: “Not exactly what I was hoping for, but every race is different. Today I crashed after making contact with another rider. It was a big impact, so I couldn’t finish the race. I’m happy I took the overall. I would have liked to finish the season in a better way, but that’s racing. I’m not going to race tomorrow because it’s better to focus on staying healthy. This season, I’ve already achieved some big goals, so I’m super happy. Next season will be another challenge.”

UCI XCC World Cup | Women U23 standings

André Gallis End XCC Season on a High as Schehl Claims Overall
The Men U23 UCI XCC World Cup overall had also been decided before a pedal was turned in Lake Placid, with Paul Schehl’s (Lexware Mountainbike Team) five consecutive victories earlier in the season proving decisive.

With the pressure off, the German was looking to bounce back from fifth place in Soldier Hollow, Utah (USA), and end his title-winning season on a high.

Schehl was immediately prominent at the front in the damp and muddy conditions, but he wouldn’t have things all his own way. After leading deep into lap five, he slipped back to fifth on the following lap and was unable to return to the head of the race.

Instead, it was Alix André Gallis (Decathlon Ford Racing Team) who seized the initiative. Outside the lead group after three laps, the Frenchman steadily worked his way back into contention before launching the decisive move from a nine-rider group on the final lap.

André Gallis held firm to claim his maiden Men U23 UCI XCC World Cup victory, while Benjamin Krüger won the sprint for second, edging Naël Rouffiac (Origine Racing Division) at the line to complete the podium.

UCI XCC World Cup | Men U23 standings

André Gallis said: “I’m so happy. This morning, for the last one, I just wanted to have fun. I didn’t expect this at all. I missed my pedal at the start and thought I wouldn’t be able to make it back into the top 10. Over the last few laps, a few opportunities made things easier for me, and on the final lap I just gave it everything I had. It worked. XCO is a different race, but my weekend is already good. Tomorrow is just a bonus.”

Overall winner Paul Schehl said: “It was super tough. The pace was super high from the beginning. I had planned a mid-race attack, but I didn’t have the chance because everyone was attacking from the start. It was super hard. On the last lap, there was a crash in front of me that cost me a bit of momentum. In the end, I could sprint for fourth, but I didn’t have the power anymore. With the overall, Worlds, my XCC results this season and P5 here, I’ll take that.”

More Titles on the Line as Lake Placid Racing Continues
In a change from the standard double-header schedule, the Endurance riders will be back between the race tape tomorrow for the UCI Cross-country Olympic (XCO) World Cup, while the Downhill field will also return to action as riders battle to qualify for Sunday’s UCI Downhill World Cup finals.

In the Women Elite XCO, the tables are turned, with Jenny Rissveds and challenger Sina Frei set to go bar-to-bar once again in the fight for the overall crown. In the Men Elite race, Luca Martin heads into the season finale on the verge of completing an impressive XCO-XCC overall double, a feat that will further establish him as one of cross-country mountain biking’s leading young riders.