Les Gets 2026: A Triumph of Precision and Passion
The 2026 UCI Mountain Bike World Cup in Les Gets, France, unfolded as a spectacle of skill, strategy, and national pride. From August 20 to 23, the resort town transformed into the epicenter of mountain biking, drawing elite athletes and fervent fans alike.
Elite Women’s Cross-Country: A Duel of Titans
In the women’s elite cross-country event, Swiss rider Sina Frei clinched victory after a nail-biting seven-lap race. She edged out Sweden’s Jenny Rissveds by a mere two seconds, completing the course in 1 hour, 22 minutes, and 48 seconds. American Savilia Blunk secured third place, finishing 30 seconds behind Frei. Notably, French cyclist Léna Gérault achieved a commendable 31st place, finishing 8 minutes and 11 seconds behind the leader.
Elite Men’s Cross-Country: A French Triumph
The men’s elite cross-country race was nothing short of historic for French mountain biking. Adrien Boichis delivered a stellar performance, defeating Dutch powerhouse Mathieu van der Poel. Boichis completed the seven-lap course in 1 hour, 19 minutes, and 48 seconds, securing a 7-second lead over van der Poel. Chilean Martin Vidaurre rounded out the podium, finishing 32 seconds behind Boichis. French rider Luca Martin narrowly missed the podium, placing fourth just 4 seconds behind Vidaurre.
Elite Women’s Downhill: A British Victory
In the women’s elite downhill event, Britain’s Harriet Harnden showcased exceptional skill and composure. She clocked a winning time of 4 minutes and 11.966 seconds, edging out France’s Marine Cabirou by 1.232 seconds. Austrian Valentina Höll secured third place, finishing 1.426 seconds behind Harnden. The competition was intense, with the top five riders separated by mere seconds, underscoring the high level of competition.
Elite Men’s Downhill: A French Victory
The men’s elite downhill race was a thrilling spectacle, culminating in a historic win for French rider Max Alran. Alran’s flawless run down the technical Les Gets track earned him a time of 3 minutes and 27.924 seconds, securing a 1.650-second lead over Austria’s Andreas Kolb. Canadian Jackson Goldstone claimed third place, finishing 2.314 seconds behind Alran. This victory marked Alran’s first World Cup win in the elite men’s category and ended a long drought for French riders in this discipline.
Junior Women’s Downhill: Norwegian Dominance
In the junior women’s downhill event, Norway’s Aletha Ostgaard continued her impressive form. She clinched victory with a time of 4 minutes and 19.316 seconds, leading France’s Cassandre Peizerat by 6.465 seconds. Danish rider Rosa Marie Jensen completed the podium, finishing 12.242 seconds behind Ostgaard. Ostgaard’s consistent performance throughout the weekend highlighted her potential for future success in the sport.
A Weekend to Remember
The 2026 UCI Mountain Bike World Cup in Les Gets was a testament to the sport’s global appeal and the dedication of its athletes. The event not only showcased thrilling races but also fostered a sense of community among riders and fans. As the dust settles on this year’s competition, the Les Gets track remains etched in the memories of all who witnessed its challenges and triumphs.