The first-ever Gravel Bogotá, part of the Panaracer GravelKing UCI Gravel World Series, delivered a memorable debut in Chía, near Bogotá, welcoming riders from ten nations to Colombia’s newest UCI Gravel World Championships qualifier. The challenging 128 km course featured nearly 1,900 metres of climbing at altitudes exceeding 3,000 metres, providing a unique test for both local and international competitors.
🚴♂️ Men Elite: Pelluad Dominates in the Andes
Swiss gravel specialist Simon Pelluad stamped his authority on the race from the opening kilometres. Taking control early on, he gradually built an advantage over the chasing group and managed his effort perfectly across the demanding mountain terrain surrounding Bogotá.
After 3:44:37 of racing, Pelluad crossed the finish line solo at La Finca de Rigo, the cycling venue owned by former professional rider Rigoberto Urán, securing victory in the inaugural edition of the Colombian qualifier. The win marks another major success for the Swiss rider, who also claimed victory at the Brazilian round of the UCI Gravel World Series in 2025.
Behind him, the battle for the remaining podium positions produced one of the most exciting finishes of the day. Colombian riders Camilo Gómez and Carlos Julián Quinteros fought wheel-to-wheel during the final kilometres before Gómez won in a sprint for second place.
🥇 Simon Pelluad (SUI) – 3:44:37
🥈 Camilo Gómez (COL) – 3:54:00
🥉 Carlos Julián Quinteros (COL) – 3:54:02
🚴♀️ Women Elite: Franco Delivers Home Victory
The women’s race was dominated from start to finish by experienced Colombian rider Natalia Franco, who thrilled local supporters with a commanding victory on home roads.
Riding consistently throughout the challenging course, Franco completed the race in 4:37:58, comfortably securing qualification for the 2026 UCI Gravel World Championships in Nannup, Australia. Her performance confirmed her status as one of Colombia’s leading off-road cyclists and highlighted the growing strength of women’s gravel racing in South America.
🥇 Natalia Franco (COL) – 4:37:58
🥈 Valentina Ovalle (COL) – 5:54:42
Following her victory, Franco emphasized the importance of hosting a UCI Gravel World Series event in Colombia, noting that the event represents a major step forward for the growth of gravel cycling in the country.
