The 2026 UCI Mountain Bike World Cup in La Thuile, Italy, delivered a series of thrilling performances across multiple disciplines, with French riders dominating the events.
Elite Men’s Cross-Country Short Track (XCC):
In a dramatic race, French riders Adrien Boichis (Specialized Factory Racing) and Luca Martin (Cannondale Factory Racing) secured the top two positions. The race was marked by a collision between Martin and his teammate, Charlie Aldridge, which led to Aldridge crashing out of contention. Boichis clinched his second consecutive XCC victory, narrowly edging out Martin. Aldridge managed to finish third despite the setback. (cyclingnews.com)
Elite Women’s Cross-Country Short Track (XCC):
Reigning European XCC champion Jenny Rissveds (Canyon XC Racing) narrowly outpaced Sina Frei (Specialized Factory Racing) to secure victory. Savilia Blunk (Decathlon Ford Racing) of the U.S. placed third, 16 seconds behind. The race unfolded on a technically demanding course in the Aosta Valley resort of La Thuile, featuring tight corners, steep climbs, and a new rock garden section. (cyclingnews.com)
Elite Men’s Downhill (DHI):
Jordan Williams (Specialized Gravity) ended the North American dominance of the 2026 season with a stunning performance. After over a thousand days since his first elite victory, Williams returned to the top step of the podium after a fearless ride on the treacherous La Thuile course. Asa Vermette (Frameworks Racing / TRP) secured second place, 0.961 seconds behind Williams, while Jackson Goldstone (Santa Cruz Syndicate) took third. (pinkbike.com)
Elite Women’s Downhill (DHI):
Vali Höll (Specialized Gravity) continued her dominance with her fourth win in five races this season. She narrowly defeated her teammate Lisa Baumann, who finished second, and Sacha Earnest (Specialized Gravity) secured third. (pinkbike.com)
Elite Men’s Enduro (EDR):
French riders achieved a remarkable trifecta in the Enduro World Cup at La Thuile. Raphaël Giambi (Speed Project) claimed his first EDR victory, finishing ahead of Adrien Dailly (Speed Project) and Alex Rudeau. Giambi’s consistent performance, including a stage win in the second of four specials, secured his top spot. In the women’s category, Ella Conolly (Decathlon Ford Racing) continued her excellent 2026 season with a victory, consolidating her lead in the overall standings. (vojomag.com)
U23 Men’s Cross-Country (XCO):
Paul Schehl (Specialized Factory Racing) continued his impressive form by winning the U23 XCO race, marking his third consecutive perfect race weekend. Nicolas Halter (Canyon Factory Racing) finished second, and Lucas Teste (Canyon Factory Racing) took third. (pinkbike.com)
U23 Women’s Cross-Country (XCO):
Valentina Corvi (Canyon Factory Racing) dominated the U23 women’s race, winning by a significant margin of two minutes and 42 seconds. Monique Halter (Canyon Factory Racing) secured second place, and Ella Macphee (Specialized Factory Racing) completed the podium in third. (pinkbike.com)
The La Thuile round of the 2026 UCI Mountain Bike World Cup showcased exceptional talent and competitive racing, with French riders making a significant impact across multiple events.
Highlights:
- French riders go one-two in short track men’s race at UCI MTB World Cup La Tuile as touch of wheels with teammate takes Charlie Aldridge out of contention, Published on Friday, July 03