With just two weeks remaining before the 2026 UCI Gravel World Championships in Nannup, Western Australia, riders still chasing a coveted qualification place have two final opportunities this weekend in Europe. The spotlight falls on two distinct but equally challenging events: Gravel Grit’n Grind in Sweden and the Pyrénées Catalanes Gravel Tour in the French Pyrenees.
Nordic Gravel Challenge in Halmstad
One of the longest-standing events in the Gravelking UCI Gravel World Series. In fact, Gravel Grit’n Grind has been part of the series since the inaugural season and has established itself as one of Northern Europe’s premier gravel races. The event also forms part of the popular Nordic Gravel Series, attracting a strong international field to the Swedish west coast.
Racing starts and finishes just outside Halmstad. Elite men, elite women and the younger age categories face a demanding 154 km route across the gravel roads and forest tracks of Halland. Riders in the men’s 60+ and women’s 50+ categories take on a 98 km course that shares the same start and finish locations before utilizing a midway shortcut.
The elite women’s race sees a clear favourite in reigning European Gravel Champion Femke Markus (NED). The Dutch rider has enjoyed a stellar season and will be looking to add another major victory in preparation for the World Championships.
The men’s elite field promises an intriguing international battle. Belgian series leader Lukas Malezsewski arrives with the momentum of a strong UCI Gravel World Series campaign but faces strong opposition. Denmark fields Andreas Stokbro Nielsen and Magnus Bak Klaris, while former WorldTour professional Lukas Pöstlberger (AUT) brings experience to the Swedish gravel roads. Namibia’s Alex Miller, a regular contender in international gravel racing, completes a highly competitive list of favourites.
Climbing Awaits in the French Pyrenees
While Sweden offers fast Nordic gravel roads, riders heading to Font-Romeu in the French Pyrenees will face a completely different challenge at the Pyrénées Catalanes Gravel Tour.
A total of 300 riders representing 21 nationalities have signed up for the event. Amongst the favorites are Belgian champion Daan Soete, runner up in the series Petr Vakoc and Alexis Vuillermoz. Nicole Frain and Marta Tora Mila appear amongst the women elite
The elite riders and younger age categories tackle a demanding 93 km course featuring 2,033 metres of elevation gain, making climbing ability a decisive factor in the battle for victory. Older age categories compete on a 77 km route with 1,726 metres of climbing, still offering a substantial mountain challenge in the spectacular Pyrenean scenery.
With high-altitude gravel roads, long ascents and technical descents, the French qualifier presents a big contrast to the more undulating Nordic terrain of Sweden. skills to secure their place on the start line in Western Australia.
Last Chance Before Nannup
As the countdown to the UCI Gravel World Championships enters its final phase, this weekend’s races represent one of the last opportunities for riders to book their ticket to Nannup.
