The 2026 UCI Mountain Bike World Cup concluded its Cross-Country Short Track (XCC) series with a thrilling finale in Lake Placid, New York. The event, held on October 2, 2026, showcased exceptional performances from both elite and under-23 athletes, culminating in the crowning of season champions.
Elite Women’s Race
Italian rider Martina Berta (Origine Racing Division) demonstrated remarkable resilience on the challenging, muddy course. She maintained a leading position throughout the race, securing her second XCC World Cup victory of the season. Sweden’s Jenny Rissveds finished a close second, while Switzerland’s Sina Frei clinched third place, ensuring her overall series victory. (pinkbike.com)
Elite Men’s Race
Chilean cyclist Martín Vidaurre Kossmann (Specialized Factory Racing) claimed his first XCC World Cup win, leading the race from the outset. He was closely followed by Germany’s Luca Schwarzbauer and Switzerland’s Filippo Colombo, who secured second and third places, respectively. French rider Luca Martin finished fourth, earning him the overall series title. (pinkbike.com)
Under-23 Women’s Race
In the under-23 women’s category, British rider Bethany-Ann Jackson emerged victorious, edging out Canada’s Rafaelle Carrier and American Makena Kellerman, who finished second and third, respectively. Italian cyclist Valentina Corvi secured the overall series championship. (pinkbike.com)
Under-23 Men’s Race
French cyclist Alix André Gallis (Decathlon Ford Racing Team) clinched his first World Cup win in the under-23 men’s race, narrowly defeating Germany’s Benjamin Krüger and fellow French rider Naël Rouffiac. Paul Schehl of France secured the overall series title. (pinkbike.com)
The Lake Placid event not only highlighted the athletes’ skill and determination but also marked the conclusion of an exhilarating XCC season, setting the stage for the upcoming Cross-Country Olympic (XCO) races.
For a visual recap of the elite men’s race, you can watch the highlights below:
Lake Placid – Men Elite XCC Highlights | 2025 WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Cup