The 2026 UCI Mountain Bike World Series has concluded, showcasing exceptional talent across both Cross-Country (XCO) and Downhill (DHI) disciplines. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the season’s standout performances:
Cross-Country (XCO):
Women’s Elite:
Sweden’s Jenny Rissveds clinched her first World Cup overall title, demonstrating consistent excellence throughout the season. In the final race at Lake Placid, Rissveds secured 11th place, while Switzerland’s Sina Frei narrowly edged out Martina Berta in a thrilling sprint finish. Frei’s victory was particularly poignant, as she donned the World Champion jersey for the last time. (cyclingnews.com)
Men’s Elite:
Luca Martin of Cannondale Factory Racing emerged as the overall champion, solidifying his dominance with a fifth-place finish in the season finale. The final race saw his teammate, Charlie Aldridge, clinch victory in a sprint against Switzerland’s Filippo Colombo. The Cannondale team celebrated a remarkable achievement, with three riders finishing in the top five. (cyclingnews.com)
Under-23 Women’s:
Italy’s Valentina Corvi showcased remarkable consistency, securing the overall title ahead of Rafaelle Carrier and Makena Kellerman. Corvi’s performance was a testament to her rising prominence in the sport. (mtbdata.com)
Downhill (DHI):
Women’s Elite:
Austria’s Vali Höll reaffirmed her status as a dominant force in downhill racing. Despite a minor setback, Höll clinched the overall title with over 1,000 points, leaving competitors Harriet Harnden and Gracey Hemstreet trailing. (mtbdata.com)
Men’s Elite:
The competition was intense, with several riders vying for the top spot. In the final race at Whistler, Canada’s Asa Vermette delivered an exceptional performance, securing the victory and ultimately the overall title. His consistent results throughout the season were instrumental in his success. (rootsandrain.com)
The 2026 season not only highlighted the prowess of these athletes but also underscored the growing global appeal of mountain biking. The series experienced a 45% increase in average viewership per round on HBO Max compared to 2025, with over 280 million people reached across social media platforms. (as.com)
For a visual recap of the season’s highlights, including Vali Höll’s impressive performances, you can watch the following video:
Vali Höll Wins at Home | DH & XC World Cup Highlights 2026