The third edition of the Swedish Trek UCI Gravel World Series is set to be a thrilling spectacle this weekend. As the only stage race in the series, it features a unique format: a time trial on Friday, followed by two gravel races on Saturday and Sunday. Only the Saturday gravel event serves as a qualifier for the UCI Gravel World Championships.
The course, located just outside Halmstad, is a demanding 82 or 136km mix of wide-open gravel roads interspersed with short but steep climbs. It shows the stunning Swedish countryside, with its lakes and forests.
The starting line on Saturday boasts an impressive lineup. Defending champion Niki Terpstra (NED) will face stiff competition from the likes of Ted King (USA), Cyclocross vice world champion Joris Nieuwenhuis (NED), Mattia De Marchi (ITA), Piotr Havik (NED), Jasper Ockeloen (NED), and Lawrence Naesen (BEL).
In the women’s race, Unbound winner Rosa Klöser (GER) is the top contender, with Laura Spencer (USA) and Nicole Frain (AUS) eager to challenge her in the 600-strong peloton representing 33 nations.
