The 2026 edition of Turnhout Gravel delivered fast, tactical and aggressive racing on the forest trails and canal paths around Turnhout (BEL). Both the men’s and women’s elite categories offered exciting finales, shaped by decisive moves in the closing kilometers.
Men Elite: Jarno Bellens breaks away to win with a 29 second gap
The men’s elite race saw the main selection form during the second lap, where a group of 11 riders got away. Attacks came frequently, but no rider was able to break clear until the final approach along the canal.
With 6 km to go, Jarno Bellens launched a powerful attack. Supported by teammate Robbe Mellaerts, who disrupted the chase behind, Bellens instantly opened a gap. The chasing group failed to organize, allowing Bellens to extend his lead all the way to the finish.
He crossed the line with a 29‑second advantage, securing a strong and well‑timed victory.
Top 3 Men Elite
- Jarno Bellens (BEL)
- Martins Pluto (LAT)
- Lander Loockx (BEL)
Women Elite: Nicole Frain outsprints Knijnenburg and Oosterwoud
The women’s race remained compact deep into the final lap, with several teams well represented. Along the canal, the pace increased sharply, causing Kirstie Van Haaften, Maaike Colje, and Romy Kasper to lose contact before the decisive run‑in to Turnhout.
In the final kilometers, three riders remained to contest the victory. Frain launched her sprint at the perfect moment and held off 2 Dutch riders to take a well‑deserved win in a sprint of 3.
Top 3 Women Elite
- Nicole Frain (AUS)
- Anne Knijnenburg (NED)
- Wendy Oosterwoud (NED)
