Home riders Joel Roth and Elena Hartmann delighted the Swiss crowds at The Majestics, the Gravelking UCI Gravel World Series qualifier held in the spectacular surroundings of Villars-sur-Ollon. The event featured a challenging course through the Alpes Vaudoises, including the iconic Col de la Croix, which ultimately proved decisive in both races. The Majestics forms part of a unique weekend that combines UCI Gran Fondo World Series and UCI Gravel World Series qualification opportunities in the Swiss Alps.
In the men’s race, the action remained tightly contested throughout the day as a select group of favourites stayed together over the demanding terrain. The decisive moment came on the ascent of the Col de la Croix, where Swiss national champion Joel Roth launched a powerful attack. Only a handful of riders were able to limit the damage, but none could close the gap before the finish.
Roth crossed the line to secure a memorable home victory, finishing 26 seconds ahead of Toby Perry (GBR). Belgian Floris De Tier completed the podium just 34 seconds behind the winner, while Kevin Kuhn (SUI) and Arne Janssens (BEL) rounded out a top five separated by a bit more than a minute.
Behind the leading group, riders continued to battle for the valuable qualification places available for the UCI Gravel World Championships and UEC Gravel European Championships in the upcoming months.
Hartmann dominates women’s race
The women’s race produced another Swiss success story as Elena Hartmann took victory on home roads.
Hartmann gradually distanced her rivals during the toughest sections of the course before extending her advantage on the final part of the race. She eventually crossed the line with a margin of almost six minutes over fellow Swiss rider Olivia Hottinger.
German rider Clara Koppenburg secured third place at 6 minutes and 36 seconds, while Italy’s Greta Recchia and Belgium’s Hanne Van Loock completed the top five.
The victory adds another major result to Hartmann’s growing gravel palmarès and confirmed Switzerland’s dominance of the event, with Swiss riders claiming victory in both elite races.
