Ultra-cyclisme : le calendrier 2026 – 2027The Roc d’Azur 2026 has kicked off with a fresh addition to its lineup: the Canyon Gravel Roc Sprint. This inaugural event, held on October 8, 2026, in Roquebrune-sur-Argens, France, offered a compact yet challenging 33.2 km course featuring a 810-meter elevation gain. (rocazur.com)
The race commenced in the picturesque town of Roquebrune-sur-Argens, renowned for its charming streets and proximity to the Estérel mountains. Participants navigated through the rugged terrains of the Estérel massif, characterized by its distinctive red volcanic rocks and panoramic views of the Mediterranean. (rocazur.com)
Despite the previous day’s heavy rainfall, which led to the cancellation of Wednesday’s events, the weather on race day was favorable. The course presented a mix of road and gravel sections, with the initial kilometers weaving through the town’s streets before ascending the Col de Valdingarde. The descent that followed was technical, with riders encountering loose gravel and stones, a remnant of the recent downpours. This added an element of unpredictability, requiring participants to exercise caution.
Midway through the race, competitors found themselves among participants of the Roc Masters, who had started an hour earlier on the same route. This overlap highlighted the event’s popularity and the shared enthusiasm for gravel racing.
The final stretch led riders back to Roquebrune-sur-Argens, with a brief uphill challenge before the descent into the town. The course’s design emphasized both speed and endurance, testing participants’ abilities across varied terrains.
Maxime Croket clinched victory in the men’s category, completing the course in just over 1 hour and 15 minutes. Julia Aubry secured the top spot in the women’s category with a time of 1 hour and 36 minutes. Feedback from participants indicated a positive reception to the sprint format, with many viewing it as an excellent warm-up for the upcoming Gravel Roc event scheduled for Saturday.
The Canyon Gravel Roc Sprint’s successful debut underscores the growing appeal of gravel racing and the Roc d’Azur’s commitment to diversifying its offerings. As the event continues, it promises to be a highlight for cycling enthusiasts seeking both challenge and camaraderie.