The 2026 UCI Mountain Bike World Cup’s second downhill (DHI) round unfolded in Loudenvielle, France, from May 29 to 31, 2026. The event was marked by intense competition, challenging conditions, and remarkable performances.<\/p>\n
Elite Women’s Race:<\/strong><\/p>\n Valentina “Vali” H\u00f6ll showcased her dominance on the treacherous Loudenvielle track, securing victory with a lead of over three seconds ahead of Gracey Hemstreet. Lisa Baumann clinched third place, impressively overcoming a fall in the final to maintain her podium position. French riders Myriam Nicole, Lisa Bouladou, and Marine Cabirou finished fourth, seventh, and eighth, respectively. (vojomag.com<\/a>)<\/p>\n Elite Men’s Race:<\/strong><\/p>\n The men’s final was fraught with unexpected twists, as numerous top contenders faced mishaps. Notably, defending champion Jackson Goldstone was disqualified after two off-track excursions during qualifications, and Lo\u00efc Bruni sustained an injury during practice sessions. In the final, Loris Vergier, Asa Vermette, Till Alran, and Amaury Pierron all encountered challenges that dashed their podium hopes. Beno\u00eet Coulanges, the 2024 winner, delivered a flawless run, briefly occupying the “hot seat.” However, Luca Shaw, after 14 years on the World Cup circuit, clinched his first-ever World Cup victory, edging out Coulanges and Jordan Williams, who had topped the qualifications. French riders Max Alran and Antoine Pierron secured eighth and eleventh places, respectively, while Belgian Martin Maes finished ninth. (vojomag.com<\/a>)<\/p>\n Junior Categories:<\/strong><\/p>\n The junior races featured emerging talents. In the junior women’s category, Lois Eller secured a commendable seventh place. The junior men’s race saw Jonty Williamson taking the top spot, highlighting the depth of young talent in the sport. (mtb-news.de<\/a>)<\/p>\n Event Highlights:<\/strong><\/p>\n The Loudenvielle track presented a formidable challenge, with its dry and dusty conditions testing riders’ skills and resilience. The event’s festive atmosphere, combined with the rugged terrain, underscored the unique appeal of downhill mountain biking. (ski-nordique.net<\/a>)<\/p>\n Looking ahead, the next round of the 2026 UCI Mountain Bike World Cup is scheduled from June 11 to 14 in Leogang, Austria, promising more high-octane action as the season progresses.<\/p>\n For a visual recap of the men’s elite DHI highlights from the 2025 World Cup in Loudenvielle, you can watch the following video:<\/p>\n Loudenvielle – Men Elite DHI Highlights | 2025 WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Cup<\/a><\/p>\n