For the first time this season, the Mercedes-Benz UCI Mountain Bike World Cup in Saalfelden Leogang brought together the worlds of Cross-Country and Downhill. The World Cup weekend in Epic Bikepark Leogang impressed with spectacular runs, a large dose of drama and spectators witnessed history in the making. Smiles and pride were seen all across the board, no matter whether they were organisers, race teams, riders or fans. Following a succesful first edition in 2021, the World Cup returned to the Saalfelden Leogang region in full force, with Cross-Country and Downhill riders descending on the Epic Bikepark Leogang. The quaint Austrian town has an established history in the Downhill world, with spectacular runs throughout the years. Even though Cross-Country has only been on the Leogang race calendar twice, there are already patterns emerging. For example, so far only Loana Lecomte (FRA) and Mathias Flückiger (SUI) have won the Cross-Country races (both Short Track and Olympic distance) and Local Hero Laura Stigger seems to have a subscription to Olympic distance third place finishes on the track with the most meters of climbing. Another pattern that has emerged over the years is the atmosphere that the amassed spectators bring with them. Over the three days, the 21,500 gathered spectators turned up in great spirits, cheering on more than 800 riders from 40 countries all the way from race start to finish, with fans gathered course-side as well as in the finish area. Even though bad weather looked to mess with the good spirits, the clouds parted right on time for the Cross-Country Short Track races on Friday evening and the sun would stay in place for the rest of the weekend. Drama and joy were readily interchanged, especially during the Downhill racing on Saturday. While Vali Höll, racing on her home turf, saw disaster strike during her race run, with two crashes putting her out of podium contention, finishing in sixth place, fellow Austrian Andreas Kolb had a career-best run, finishing on the podium in fifth place, less than a 2.5 seconds behind race winner Matt Walker (GBR) and becoming the first Austrian ever to finish on a World Cup podium. As usual, the gathered spectators were treated to much more than 'just' spectacular racing. Ahead of the Downhill finals, fans were treated to an air show, courtesy of the Flying Bulls. Pilot Miguel Hochleitner showed off his aerial acrobatics on board of the Trojan 28B, with the Top Gun soundtrack accompanying him. Meanwhile on Sunday, Senad Grosic hosted a BMX Show, which wowed Cross-Country enthusiasts in between the women's and men's races. Following the race action, fans were able to come face-to-face with some of their heroes and idols at the FOX Racing signing session. The Team Area was also frequently visited as the hunt for more signatures took attendees through the pits, where they could get an exclusive look behind the scenes of a race weekend. Meanwhile, the Expo Area was jam-packed with the latest and greatest of the bike world. "Thanks to the weather, the weekend didn't start great, but things picked up quickly once the rain stopped and made way for sunshine on Saturday and Sunday, becoming the perfect stage for the weekend's racing. Spectators were amazed by the racing here in Leogang. Andreas Kolb's podium place was the cherry on top for the Austrian fans, and I'm elated because of that. The same goes for Laura Stigger, who had an outstanding race," said Kornel Grundner, World Cup organizer and Director of the Leogang Cable Car. "After the first few hectic days, also because of the weather, today was the cherry on the cake of an incredible event. The weekend was great, and the racing was sensational. The weather gods played along and thankfully we had perfect weather across all the races, from Friday's Cross-Country Short Track, Saturday's Downhill and Sunday's Cross-Country Olympic racing. The crowd always makes it special and we witnessed history in the making once again. We couldn't be happier," said Marco Pointner, World Cup organizer and CEO of Saalfenden Leogang Touristik GmbH. The World Cup weekend carried the "Green Event Salzburg" label, which meant a focus on sustainability and environmentally friendly initiatives. The World Cup organizers offered a ticket refund for public transport, free regional shuttles, motivated teams and spectators to separate their trash and use recycling bins where possible, launched the MTB World Cup app in order to limit the use of paper and much more. Another initiative was the "Every Can Contributes", which focussed on the recycling of beverage cans. The free shuttles were a hit as well, covering approximately 1400 kilometres, which is about the distance from Leogang all the way to Barcelona. For everyone that missed the weekend's race action, replays are available on-demand on Red Bull TV.
The skies have cleared and the weather has heated up as the riders tackle the challenging, although mostly dry, course in Leogang, that will push the legs, lungs and courage of the athletes as long steep climbs meet technical and steep descents. Loana Lecomte completes back-to-back perfect weekends in Leogang After a strong performance in short track, Loana Lecomte will certainly be looking to have a similar Leogang to last year, winning both events while Austrian’s Mona Mitterwallner and Laura Stigger will be looking to capitalize on their home-field advantage and get their first wins of the season. Of course, no one will have an easy victory as this stacked field is hungry. Strong challenger and reigning World Champion Evie Richards (GBR) is out of this race with a back injury while Pauline Ferrand-Pr´evot (FRA) will also not be racing, choosing to focus on other events. An immediate pile-up right out of the start saw Austrian’s Mona Mitterwallner’s hopes of getting out in front early disappearing before her eyes. She ended up in a pile-up that saw an issue with her handlebar alignment. She ran her bike up a section of the first hill but was unable to mount her bike and join the pack, running back to have it fixed. Despite her tough fight back into the race, she ultimately ended the day in 15th place. Olympic Champion Jolanda Neff (SUI) was able to hop into the lead early on in the start lap, but she was unable to add any real distance on competition and crossed the finish line just slightly in front of a challenging Loana Lecomte. In the first big climb of the second lap, Lecomte and Rissveds were able to get by Neff and add some distance between themselves and the competition. Meanwhile, Mona Mitterwallner headed back on course and quickly began to make some moves. The distance between the leading group of Rissveds and Lecomte has grown substantially through the first lap, putting them 30 seconds in the lead. Following a good start for Jolanda Neff it appears her legs just aren’t there for her today as she falls back to 20th place. Ultimately, she pushes back up to 8th place to end her day. The battle for the final podium spot is the closest to watch with Specialized riders Frei (SUI) and Stigger (AUT) within a second of each other and playing leapfrog throughout the first three laps. Meanwhile, the undefeated Rebecca McConnell is having a challenging race as she falls back to sixth place with two laps left. Lecomte continued her dominating performance through the next laps, and her lead grew until she ultimately crossed the finish line 1:13min. ahead of a spent Rissveds to grab her 6th career World Cup win. Austria's best hope lay on the shoulders of Laura Stigger, who sat in third place with one lap left. The exciting fight for third between Stigger and Frei continued into the last lap. It was an incredible show of determination as both riders were out of the saddle, but Stigger was able to add a few bike lengths on Frei, grabbing 3rd by just a few seconds. Just behind Frei was a persistent Terpstra (NED), grabbing herself a 5th place finish here in Leogang. An elated Loana Lecomte spoke on how she's feeling after her win. "Last year I was the first person in a long time to win 4 World Cups, and this year I was the first person to win a perfect weekend in the same place. So I am very happy to be honored in mountain bike history.” Cross-Country (XCO) Results Elite Women: 1. Loana Lecomte (FRA) 1:15:42 2. Jenny Rissveds (SWE) 1:16:55 3. Laura Stigger (AUT) 1:17:10 4. Sina Frei (SUI) 1:17:23 5. Anne Terpstra (NED) 1:17:52 Overall World Cup Standings Top 5: 1. Rebecca McConnell (AUS) 1093 2. Loana Lecomte (FRA) 916 3. Anne Terpstra (NED) 713 4. Laura Stigger (AUT) 698 5. Jenny Rissveds (SWE) 695 Fluckiger staves off Schurter (SUI) for another perfect weekend in Leogang In a group of men who are all ready and in great shape to go to battle to take top honors, it is impossible to know who will finish the day on top. There is no doubt that Mathias Fluckiger will be looking to continue his streak and go back-to-back perfect weekends in Leogang. Meanwhile, Schurter (SUI) will be looking to add another World Cup win, solidifying himself in the history books with the most World Cup wins of all time. Dascalu, Fidel, Albin, and the rest of the riders will do their best to make sure neither of these rider’s plans come true. A notable absence from the men's race was Tom Pidcock, who will not be racing this weekend, choosing to focus on road bikes in order to set himself up for the Tour de France. A quick start from Henrique Avancini (BRA) saw him rocket out of the start but he wasn’t able to hold onto it as Vlad Dascalu (ROU) got by him and immediately began upping the pace of the race. Nino Schurter showed off his fitness and strength as he passed Dascalu on the first big climb of lap one. Although there was no major separation between the riders, Schurter was leading the pack. Fluckiger changed up the top 5 with an impressive push, jumping multiple spots on the final climb of lap one putting himself in fourth place joining Hatherly, Dascalu, and Cooper behind Schurter. These men worked hard and did everything they could to not let Schurter take off as he set a challenging pace. The battle was on and the group stuck together. Dascalu was able to grab the lead for a moment before Schurter showcased his strength again and reclaimed his spot out front. The group was close, with Dascalu, Hatherly and Fluckiger all crossing the second finish line all within a second of each other, trailing Nino Schurter closely. An impressive boost from Mathias Fluckiger as he capitalized on the other seemingly relaxed riders was able to pass Hatherly, Dascalu and Schurter to take the lead. Breaking up the pack and pushing himself and Shurter out in front by 7 seconds. The two fight it out and Schurter is able to get past Fluckiger to regain the lead as these two continue to bounce back and forth. With 2 laps left, the Swiss riders took a commanding lead leaving Hatherly (RSA) 8 seconds back and Marotte (FRA) another 22 seconds back from him. Fluckiger was able to put his head down again and battle past Schurter on the first big climb of the fifth lap, with the two continuing to lead by a large margin. An all-out sprint for the final laps sees Fluckiger unable to drop Schurter and Schurter unable to pass. The final hills saw Fluckiger gaining the smallest margin on Schurter coming into the finish. A final sprint put Fluckiger 6 seconds up, earning himself another big win here at Leogang. This gave Mathias the perfect weekend he was looking for but caused Schurter to fall short on his search for the most World Cup wins. Marotte pushed hard but fell back as Dascalu battled past him, leaving him with a 5th place finish. Hatherly also lost some momentum as Dascalu picked up the pace to close the gap. Hatherly was able to hold on long enough to grab 3rd place, giving Dascalu a well-earned 4th place finish. “After Friday's win and today’s, I know I am in good shape - but this is just so tough. It was a great battle once again with Nino, this time a better end for me, and I am really happy about that! Congrats to him. This is tough, really tough. It’s a really demanding course here, lots of climbing and you never really have the chance to recover.“ stated a visibly exhausted yet thrilled Mathias Fluckiger Cross-Country (XCO) Results Elite Men: 1. Mathias Fluckiger (SUI) 1:15:31 2. Nino Schurter (SUI) 1:15:37 3. Alan Hatherly (RSA) 1:16:10 4. Vlad Dascalu (ROU) 1:16:16 5. Maxime Marotte (FRA) 1:16:40 Overall World Cup Standings Top 5: 1. Nino Schurter (SUI) 964 2. Vlad Dascalu (ROU) 775 3. Mathias Fluckiger (SUI) 711 4. Alan Hatherly (RSA) 692 5. Thomas Pidcock (GBR) 600 Great performances in U23 makes for exciting racing A super strong showing for U23 racers saw a very close battle for the woman as Puck Pieterse (NED) was narrowly able to best Line Burquier (FRA) to walk away victorious over 4 laps. The men's race saw a little more distance between competitors with Martin Vidaurre Kossmann (CHI) firmly grabbing the victory 19 seconds in front of second place. Will the Swiss be able to capitalize on home soil? This season is only a third of the way through, despite the amount of action we’ve already gotten to experience so far. The battle between Mathias Fluckiger and Nino Schurter is only going to heat up as they both begin to think about overall points. It is safe to say that Schurter will be doing his absolute best to win the race next month in Lenzerheide as he would be absolutely thrilled to capture the record for most World Cup wins on home soil. Sina Frei has been looking strong all season. A 4th place finish in Leogang will undoubtedly have her confidence high as she heads back to try and collect a World Cup win at home. Successful World Cup with a difficult start Despite difficult conditions at the beginning, the Mercedes-Benz UCI Mountain Bike World Cup in Saalfelden Leogang developed into the expected great MTB festival. More than 21,500 spectators followed the exciting World Cup decisions of the past few days, saw great drama and outstanding triumphs. After the rain stopped, big and small fans flooded the Expo Area to marvel at the hottest innovations in the bike world or to hunt for autographs in the Team Area. Not to mention the many side events, such as a Flying Bulls air show. For more information about the Mercedes-Benz UCI Mountain Bike World Cup in Saalfelden Leogang, head over to www.mtb-weltcup.at. For everyone that could not make it to the double World Cup, the full action can reviewed on Red Bull TV.
Especially in the women's competition, luck and drama were very close together: while Camille Balanche secured her third victory in the third race in Leogang, local hero Vali Höll again failed to win in front of her home crowd. There was still reason to celebrate for the Austrian fans, because Andreas Kolb secured fifth place and the best placement of the Austrian Downhill men to date. Former overall World Cup winner Matt Walker secured the first World Cup race victory of his career in Leogang. Balanche (SUI) completes the 3-peat in variable conditions Fortunately for both the riders and the 20,000+ spectators, the rain has finally stopped and the sun is shining, giving the wet and muddy course a chance to dry. However, it’s safe to say that despite a little warm weather, the slippery track and mud that has accumulated is a challenge that every rider will have to face. As was expected coming into this race, the final wood section acted as both the toughest section of the course and a section that would make or break a run. Coming off her win in Fort William, Nina Hoffman (GER) came into the wood section well into the green but lost it early into the mud. She was able to get moving again only to go back off line shortly after, ending her chance of standing on top of the podium today. Eleonora Farina (ITA) showcased her skill through the wood section and was able to keep her feet on the pedals and put down a clean run. Hitting the wood gap coming out of the wooded section gained her even more time, crossing the finish line over five seconds up. Myriam Nicole (FRA) looked to be holding a little back through the motorway. A mistake up top saw her battling to get back into the green which she was able to do before the wooded section. She powered through, finding herself deeper in the green and gaining 4 seconds on the leader by the time she crossed the finish line. A terrible-looking crash towards the top for Marine Cabirou (FRA) would end her chances. Fortunately, she would be able to ride away and make it to the bottom. Valentina Holl (AUT) was certainly keen to win on home track and was 7 seconds into the green when a small crash near the top would see her fall back half a second into the red. She was looking strong into her namesake wood section, but lost it again when she went over the bars, ending her chances. A visibly disappointed Vali fell to the ground at the finish line, where she sat in 5th place. Camille Balanche (SUI), the qualifying winner, rode a clean run from top to bottom. She found herself in the green right away, hitting all of the jumps, clearing the wood section, and hitting the Red Bull drop - all adding to her winning margin. Balanche, the final rider, crossed the finish line 11 seconds in front of second place giving her the hat-trick in Leogang. "It was way better. I tried not to risk it too much, because now it’s so fast I was not expecting this. I didn’t make the mistakes at the top and then when you start your run without mistakes it’s just better in the head. It felt really good, I’m so stoked. Third time in a row here is a dream, even more in quali and then crossed the line first. I’m on the moon.” said a visibly stoked Camille Balanche Downhill (DHI) Results Elite Women: 1. Camille Balanche (SUI) 4:08:218 2. Myriam Nicole (FRA) 4:19:586 3. Eleonora Farina (ITA) 4:24:281 4. Louisa-Anna Ferguson (GBR) 4:29:876 5. Monika Hrastnik (SLO) 4:30:258 Overall World Cup Standings Top 5: 1. Camille Balanche (SUI) 685 2. Myriam Nicole (FRA) 555 3. Valentina Holl (AUT) 460 4. Eleonora Farina (ITA) 395 5. Nina Hoffmann (GER) 368 Matt Walker (GBR) takes home first World Cup win A notable absence in the men's category is Scotsman Reece Wilson. Wilson took to social media to let fans know that he has not been feeling himself lately and is taking some time to get back to feeling good. Loic Bruni who injured himself in Fort Williams will also be out for this round. After a long time off his bike with a severe ankle injury, last year's winner, Troy Brosnan, was able to make a return and qualified in 6th place. Back from recovery as well, six weeks off the bike following a concussion saw Finn Iles back to full strength with a solid 2nd place finish in qualifying. Amaury Pierron (FRA) was sitting in second place coming into the woods, but was incredibly strong throughout the section, powering over the roots and nailing the corners. A brief foot dab was the only visible fault. Pierron crossed the finish line in first place, over a second up. Pierron would end the day in 4th place. Angel Suarez Alonso (ESP) was next in the starting gates. His splits bounced back and forth between red and green, always staying close to Pierron’s times. Angel looked strong through the wood section and powered through the final jumps into first place. Angel’s efforts would be enough to finish his day on the podium, in third place. Thibaut Daprela (FRA) was riding a wild run and was looking like he might be able to challenge the leader board. A crash in the woods would take that chance away. Starting off the race in the green and looking lightning-fast for the first split, Laurie Greenland (GBR) lost over 8 seconds before the second split. He was able to ride a fast rest of the race and salvage some points but certainly didn’t end up where he wanted to finish, far back on the leaderboard. Danny Hart (GBR) found himself up by over a second into the motorway. He was able to crush the rest of the run and stay in the green through the wood section and come out a second up. Hart crossed the finish line in first up by over a second with three riders left up top. Danny’s time in the hot seat wouldn't last long as his fellow countrymen was up next and would directly knock him off. Matt Walker (GBR) found the green by the second split by the narrowest margin. He lost the green for a moment but aggressively attacked the woods and found himself back in first. He was able to hold onto it and crossed the line knocking his fellow Englishman out of first. Two riders to go. We saw some potentially over-aggressive riding up top, causing Finn Iles (CAN) to fall back a little bit, but the battle was far from over. He worked hard to try and make it back, but it wasn't enough - 6th place with one rider left. The top qualifier Benoit Coulanges (FRA) looked fast and in control through the top of his run, gaining over a second on Matt Walker. He wasn't able to continue his clean riding, losing a foot and crashing in the woods. A disappointment for Coulanges, putting him in 20th place. Although Coulanges couldn’t hold on to get his first World Cup win, Walker watched from the hot seat and claimed his. An exciting day for the Englishmen with both 1st and 2nd going to Great Britain. Coulanges’ mishap gave the Austrian fans a reason to celebrate, too, as local hero Andreas Kolb (AUT) remained in fifth place, securing the best Austrian DH World Cup result in history and his first podium. “Honestly, I can’t put it into words. It's unbelievable just trying to absorb the moment as much as possible. Honestly, I didn’t expect it this week. It’s not a track I’ve done particularly well on in the past. I felt really good in practice this morning. I was confident in my lines, I made some bold choices with tires, and it paid off“ beamed an excited Matt Walker. Downhill (DHI) Results Elite Men: 1. Matt Walker (GBR) 3:28:816 2. Danny Hart (GBR) 3:29:141 3. Angel Suarez (ESP) 3:30:370 4. Amaury Pierron (FRA) 3:30:530 5. Andreas Kolb (AUT) 3:31:249 Overall World Cup Standings Top 5: 1. Amaury Pierron (FRA) 580 2. Matt Walker (GBR) 443 3. Danny Hart (GBR) 401 4. Benoit Coulanges (FRA) 380 5. Laurie Greenland (GBR) 354 Neither qualifying winners hold onto top spots through the finals Jackson Goldstone (CAN) and Jenna Hastings (NZL) were unable to hold onto their top qualifying position through the finals. Both riders went for it but finished in second place. Phoebe Gale (GBR) put down an incredible run and took top honors over 14 seconds into first place. Jordan Williams (GBR) came out on top of the men's race with a run that put him 4 seconds faster than Goldstone. Warm weather will make for great Cross-Country racing Clear forecast and dryer conditions will certainly make for some great Cross-Country racing tomorrow. As the mud dries and the ground hardens the speed that these riders will have to find will increase. For more information about the Mercedes-Benz UCI Mountainbike World Cup in Saalfelden Leogang, head over to www.mtb-weltcup.at. For everyone that cannot make it to the double World Cup, the action can be followed live on Red Bull TV. It wouldn't be a Leogang World Cup stop without a packed schedule of side-events. Before the XCO final on Sunday a BMX show hosted by Senad Grosic will take place. The Expo Area will be filled to the brim with the latest and greatest from the bike world and in the Team Area, visitors can get a look behind the scenes at the daily life of athletes during a World Cup weekend. Both areas can be visited on Sunday (09:30 - 17:00).
The international Cross-Country elite racing kicked off the promising World Cup weekend in Saalfelden Leogang with two spectacular XCC races that were hard to beat in terms of excitement and drama. In the end, Loana Lecomte and Mathias Flückiger won their respective races in difficult conditions. Loanna Lecomte (FRA) puts it together for a dominating race win in the mud Traction would be a battle for the women competing for starting spots and overall points in the Cross Country Short Track race. Wet conditions leading up to the race created soft, slippery conditions which made the large climbs on this track even more challenging. Sadly for fans, Pauline Ferrand-Prevot was notably absent as she has chosen to focus her efforts on future events. Rebecca McConnell was able to blast out of the start and put herself in the holeshot position early on in the race. This course saw riders go straight out of the start into a massive climb which established much larger gaps between riders than we are used to seeing in these Short Track races. Lap one ended with McConnell (AUS) in the lead and Rissveds (SWE) following closely behind. McConnell was looking strong and held onto the lead through laps 1, 2, and 3 but Loanna Lecomte (FRA) was able to battle past McConnell in the 4th lap of the race. Lecomte was able to add loads of distance on the rest of the competition through the next two laps, finishing the 5th lap over 14 seconds in front of her closest competitor. Behind her, a group of 4 battled hard for second place, with McConnell at the back of that pack. Loanna continued to push her body and dominated throughout the remainder of the race. Riding hard and adding time on her competitors with each lap, she crossed the line heading into the final lap up by a whopping 21 seconds. This is even more impressive considering she was battling a flat rear tire for the final few laps. The final lap saw some change up with Terpstra (NED) battling through the group of 4 to grab second place, looking over her shoulder to see her Ghost teammate Bohé in third place crossing the final finish line. An exciting podium to see, with Loanna Lecomte winning back to back Leogang Short Track World Cup wins and her second short-track win overall, with Bohé finding her first Short Track World Cup podium finish. “I felt good and now I’m feeling good. I had a flat tire on the last 3 or 2 laps so I tried to push slowly to be able to finish the race. My leg is good and I can't wait for Sunday’s race. I didn’t expect to win today so if it can be possible, I will do that. I did it today and it’s a very good start for the weekend. We will see Sunday results. No pressure, just enjoy the time on my bike.” said an elated Loanna Lecomte after her incredible performance through seven laps XCC Short Track Results Elite Women: 1. Loana Lecomte (FRA) 21:21 2. Anne Terpstra (NED) 21:30 3. Caroline Bohé (DEN) 21:40 4. Alessandra Keller (SUI) 21:48 5. Rebecca McConnell (AUS) 21:55 Overall World Cup Standings Top 5: 1. Rebecca Mcconnell (AUS) 740 points 2. Alessandra Keller (SUI) 540 points 3. Loana Lecomte (FRA) 530 points 4. Anne Terpstra (NED) 504 points 5. Jolanda Neff (SUI) 475 points Mathias Fluckiger (SUI) battles for his second straight win at Leogang Round 4 of Short Track started with the men shooting straight out of the start gate into the first large grassy climb. Short Track World Champion Phillip Columbo (SUI) went down right off the bat, creating a large pile-up in the middle of the pack. Lap 1 ended with Avancini (BRA) in front of a very close race. The standings remained the same through lap 2 with Avancini in the lead and Dascalu (ROU) right on his tire with a large group of riders closely tailing them. The third lap showed a little more action with a bottleneck before the wood bridge requiring many riders to push their bike to the top of the slippery wood feature. Halfway through the race, a notable Nino Schurter (SUI) sat in 11th place. Swiss riders Fluckiger and his fellow countryman Albin were able to push past Avancini to head into first and second respectively with two laps to go. Albin was able to stay with Fluckiger for a brief period, but Mathias took off and was able to add massive distance on the rest of the competition. He started the final lap with a 17 second advantage. The battle for second place was the one to watch as Dascalu was able to stave off Albin, Avancini, and Schuermans to get the best Short Track finish of his career. This impressive performance by Fluckiger gives him his second Leogang Short Track race win in a row and an exciting start to a busy weekend. Some notable riders out of the top spots were current point leader Luca Schwarzbauer (GER) who finished 30th, Nino Schurter (SUI), who finished 11th, and Filippo Colombo who did not finish the race. “I was excited before the race and in the race. Actually this track suits me. I don’t know if it’s the track or just the location but I just enjoy riding here and when you enjoy it it’s normally a good performance.“ said an obviously thrilled Mathias Fluckiger. XCC Short Track Results Elite Men: 1. Mathias Fluckiger (SUI) 21:46 2. Vlad Dascalu (ROU) 21:57 3. Vital Albin (SUI) 22:07 4. Henrique Avancini (BRA) 22:10 5. Jens Schuermans (BEL) PHOTO Overall XCC World Cup Standings Top 5: 1. Luca Schwarzbauer (GER) 541 points 2. Mathias Fluckiger (SUI) 538 points 3. Henrique Avancini (BRA) 535 points 4. Alan Hatherly (RSA) 512 points 5. Nino Schurter (SUI) 490 points Everchanging conditions and a tight qualifying will certainly make for a great final. Tomorrow's Downhill is sure to be an exciting event to watch. As with Cross Country, the rain has made the downhill course even more challenging. The forecasted sun may turn the mud into an even trickier Peanut butter-like substance that will have every rider reevaluating their race strategy. This morning's qualifier saw Jackson Goldstone (CAN) continue his powerful riding this season with a 9-second lead over second-place while Jenna Hastings (NZL) was able to cross the line over 12 seconds ahead of second place for the juniors. Elite qualifying saw more strong riding as Camille Balanche (SUI) was able to put down a clean run, narrowly beating Vali Holl's time of 4:25.620 with a time of 4:25.019. Setting up for a dramatic finish for tomorrow's final. The men's elite qualifying was also a very close race with Benoit Coulanges (FRA) taking top honors with the next 4 riders all within 3 seconds of his time. Tune in tomorrow as the world’s fastest downhiller riders take to the mud to battle it out in Leogang Austria. For more information about the Mercedes-Benz UCI Mountain Bike World Cup in Saalfelden Leogang, head over to www.mtb-weltcup.at. For everyone that cannot make it to the double World Cup, the action can be followed live on Red Bull TV. It wouldn't be a Leogang World Cup stop without a packed schedule of side-events, including an air show of the Flying Bulls with the Trojan 28B and pilot Miguel Hochleitner Saturday before the DHI Elite finals and “Long Live Chainsaw” film screening at XCO VIP grand stand the following evening at 6:30 pm. Before the XCO final on Sunday a BMX show hosted by Senad Grosic will take place. The Expo Area will be filled to the brim with the latest and greatest from the bike world and in the Team Area, visitors can get a look behind the scenes at the daily life of athletes during a World Cup weekend. Both areas can be visited on Friday (12:00 - 20:00), Saturday (10:00 - 20:00) and Sunday (09:30 - 17:00).
First day of training in Saalfelden Leogang for the downhill and cross country world elites, who will face each other next weekend at the Mercedes-Benz UCI Mountainbike World Cup at Epic Bikepark. The first sampling on the challenging routes took place today in adverse weather conditions. With the track the best came local matador Vali Hell, the fastest of the timed training session. The first training session in Saalfelden Leogang turned into a wet, cold and, above all, muddy affair for the downhill and cross country runners. But weather-wise, improvement is in sight. At the first scan of the track, therefore, the home aces approached it a little more cautiously today. For Laura Stigger and Mona Mitterwallner, the first World Cup decision is already on the agenda tomorrow with the short track (from 5.30pm): “The course is great to ride, but I was content with the B-Line today and didn’t want to risk anything,” explains Mitterwallner, who like compatriot Laura Stigger is one of the narrow favourites. One lady from Australia is the big chaser this weekend: Rebecca "Bec" McConnell. The Australian recently not only claimed a World Cup hat-trick, but also dominates the overall short track standings. In the men's elite, the duel between Nino Schurter (SUI) and Tom Pidcock (GBR) came to an end. The Swiss legend won the opening race in Brazil and is at the top of the overall standings after two more second and third places. With another victory over the Olympic distance, Schurter would also become the sole record holder for most World Cup victories with a total of 34 World Cup victories. The chances of that record are good as English fly-half Tom Pidcock pauses in Leogang to prepare for the Tour de France. Still, Schurter and Leogang – this is not yet the great love relationship. Quite the opposite to another Swiss: Last year the strong climber Mathias Fluckiger cheered in the short track of Leogang, can he strike again this year? Vali Hell fastest woman in timed training session For the downhillers, around the Saalbacher Valentina “Vali” Héll, who was able to win today’s training run, the qualifying runs are on the program tomorrow (from 12.30 pm). With her victory in Lourdes and a second place in Fort William, Camille Balanche (SUI), who also feels comfortable in Leogang poodles, leads the leaderboard. The Swiss not only won the World Cup race in Pinzgau last year, but also the World Cup in 2020. World champion Myriam Nicole (FRA) and Fort William winner Nina Hoffmann (GER) will also have a say in the victory. After two wins in two World Cup races in the men's elite, Frenchman Amaury Pierron is drawing circles alone. He also dominated today's training in Leogang. His fiercest pursuers Laurie Greenland (GBR), Thibaut Dapréla (FRA), Benoit Coulanges (FRA) and the last ailing Finn Iles (CAN) do not yet seem to have found a remedy to Pierron's dominance. Plenty of programming outside of the racing scene On Friday (12 to 8 p.m.), Saturday (10 to 8 p.m.) and Sunday (9.30 to 5 p.m.) the Team & Expo Area offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at professional mountain biking. Here you can watch the riders during the race preparation, but also look over the shoulder at the mechanics during the fine tuning of the bikes. Of course, countless exhibitors also give the opportunity to take a closer look at the innovations in bike technology and bike accessories and test them in the Shimano Test Area. Those who want to go further with the riders will have the opportunity to get a coveted autograph at a Fox Racing signing session on Friday at 4pm at the box office of the valley station Asitz. But not only on the ground, but also in the air, the supporting program at the Mercedes-Benz UCI Mountainbike Worldcup in Saalfelden Leogang plays all the pieces. On Saturday at 12.15pm, before the final of the downhill, Flying Bull pilot Miguel Hochleitner will conjure up an impressive airshow with artistic aerial displays in the sky with the historic North American T-28B. On Sunday, we will go to BMX. Before the final of the Cross Country Riders Senad Grosic puts on a brilliant show at the event venue. Also not to be missed on the World Cup weekend: the parties in the surrounding bars. The “Warm Up” takes place on Friday in the Kralleralm, the Rider’s Party rises on Saturday in the Outback. Special tip: A free ride with the effis! On Fridays, public access throughout Salzburg is free and on Saturdays and Sundays the event ticket is also the ticket with the SVV & UBB (S-Bahn & REX). For those who cannot attend the double World Cup live, there is the possibility to watch the final races live on Red Bull TV and ORF Sport+.
Their two worlds will merge from 10 - 12 June as the first double World Cup of the 2022 season takes place in Saalfelden Leogang, Austria, as the Austrian town becomes the hot-bed of global mountain biking for a few days. Over 800 athletes from 44 nations will give it their all in the hunt for valuable World Cup points, and they will be cheered on by more than 20,000 mountain bike loving spectators. Spectacular side events complete this bike-action filled weekend. Tickets can be purchased online or at the box office and if history shows, it pays to be fast, as they're sure to sell out. Tyrolean advantage? Swiss legend vs. British high-flyer? While only a third of the Cross-Country season has come and gone, one rider's name has risen above all others so far: Rebecca 'Bec' McConnell, the new rider to beat. The Australian rider has won all three Olympic distance races and has been on the podium for all of the Short Track races as well, putting her on top of both rankings ahead of the races in Leogang. Apart from the usual podium suspects, two Austrians have risen through the ranks; Laura Stigger and Mona Mitterwallner, who are ranked fourth and fifth in the XCO Overall rankings. Cheered on by their "home" crowd, both are ready to prove their mettle. "The pressure is immense, especially the one that I put on myself. I'm excited to race and I want to have fun doing it, that's what I keep telling myself. First order of business is to show the spectators that we've got what it takes," says Mona Mitterwallner, who has won multiple times in Leogang as well as winning the U-23 Cross-Country Overall World Cup in 2021. "The Short Track course is extremely demanding, right from the start. The meadow climb is quite physical, and you need to have good technique. Altogether, the Leogang track has the most vertical meters, but I think that suits the Tyroleans quite well and I'm looking forward to it." - Laura Stigger In the men's field, this season has seen a battle unfold between Nino Schurter (SUI) and Tom Pidcock (GBR). The Swiss legend leads the Overall World Cup rankings thanks to a win in Brazil, as well as podium finishes in Nove Mesto (2nd) and Albstadt (3rd) and is one Olympic distance win away from calling himself the record holder for most World Cup wins. Meanwhile, Pidcock is second in the Overall with back to back wins, but he has yet to confirm whether he's racing in Leogang. Score to settle for Austrian local? Leogang good luck charm for Balanche (SUI)? If home advantage will play a role in the Downhill races, there is one rider that would capitalize on it is Austrian Valentina 'Vali' Höll. Growing up just a stone's throw away from the iconic World Cup stop, she knows the track like no other and has a score to settle with the 'Speedster' after crashes in 2020 and 2021 took her out of the running for an Austrian win. Camille Balanche, who sits in first place in the Overall rankings after winning the season opener in Lourdes and finishing second in Fort William, will be hoping that the idyllic town continues to be her good luck charm, especially after winning the 2020 World Championships and the 2021 World Cup in this very town. Hot on the heels of Vali and Camille will be current World Champion Myriam Nicole (FRA) and Nina Hoffmann (GER), who was the fastest woman in Fort William. "It's crazy to witness the development of the World Cup, especially over the last three years. Back in the days there were maybe one or two riders who could say they won a World Cup, but now, there are six women who all have what it takes to win. Just to get into the Top 5 has become a challenge in itself. Of course, that's really motivating, but it's also a bit annoying that there are so many fast riders. Leogang is always an interesting race for me. I've qualified first every single time in Leogang, which gave me the "Quali-Vali" nickname, but I would struggle during finals. I think that that has to do with routines and the ability to deal with pressure. I know that as long as I don't crash, I'll have a good race." Valentina Höll. With two wins in two races, French rider Amaury Pierron has become the man to beat. His closest rivals, including Laurie Greenland (GBR), Thibaut Dapréla (FRA), Benoit Coulanges (FRA) and Finn Iles (CAN), have yet to find a way to break Pierron's dominance. With Loic Bruni (FRA) out due to a collarbone fracture suffered in Fort William, who will prove fast enough to beat Pierron? Electrifying atmosphere with 20,000 fans, a packed event schedule and more Saalfelden Leogang World Cup weekend means a lot more than spectacular racing. It means party vibes, bike action on- and off the trails, signing sessions, an air show and more. For the first time since 2019, spectators are once again allowed trackside in the Epic Bikepark Leogang. "We're expecting between 7,000 to 10,000 visitors per day. The other World Cup stops have done very well, and it shows just how much the sport is booming. The scene is dying to be there again, to experience a race trackside, because that's an extremely unique feeling," says Kornel Grundner, director of the Leogang cable car and organizer of the World Cup. It wouldn't be a Leogang World Cup stop without a packed schedule of side-events, including an air show of the Flying Bulls with the Trojan 28B and pilot Miguel Hochleitner, a BMX show hosted by Senad Grosic as well as a signing session with some of the best FOX Racing athletes. The Expo Area will be filled to the brim with the latest and greatest from the bike world and in the Team Area, visitors can get a look behind the scenes at the daily life of athletes during a World Cup weekend. Both areas can be visited on Friday (12:00 - 20:00), Saturday (10:00 - 20:00) and Sunday (09:30 - 17:00). Tickets for this bike-action filled weekend can be purchased online or at the box office and if history shows, it pays to be fast, as they're sure to sell out. As a "Green Event Salzburg", the World Cup focusses heavily on sustainability. The organizers aim to reduce their ecological footprint to a minimum by, for example, providing free public transport and shuttles on site, providing the means to separate and reduce waste and motivating people to use the MTB World Cup app in order to reduce paper usage, but also use energy efficiently. For more information about the Mercedes-Benz UCI Mountainbike World Cup in Saalfelden Leogang, head over to www.mtb-weltcup.at. For everyone that cannot make it to the double World Cup, the action can be followed live on Red Bull TV.
Thousands of bike fans will watch the world's best riders at work. In addition to the battle for seconds, this weekend in the Epic Bikepark Leogang there is also the full action package off the tracks – countless side events await. Where the big wow moments can be experienced at the double World Cup from 10 to 12 June at the Epic Bikepark Leogang is clear: Right next to the track, when the world’s best downhill and cross country riders seemingly fearlessly throw themselves over roots, obstacles and steep curves, sometimes at high speed into the valley. But also away from the racing scene, the bike event in Saalfelden Leogang awaits with some side events worth seeing. Where? For example in the Team & Expo Area or in airy heights at the Red Bull Airshow! An exclusive look behind the scenes of the bike sport On Friday (12 to 8 p.m.), Saturday (10 to 8 p.m.) and Sunday (9.30 to 5 p.m.) the Team & Expo Area offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at professional mountain biking. Here you can watch the riders during the race preparation, but also look over the shoulder at the mechanics during the fine tuning of the bikes. Of course, countless exhibitors also give the opportunity to take a closer look at the innovations in bike technology and bike accessories. Those who want to go further with the riders will have the opportunity to get a coveted autograph at a Fox Racing signing session on Friday at 4pm at the box office of the valley station Asitz. There are also several raffles, such as at Scott’s booth, where a signed N1NO Schurter jersey is given away every day. The latest products can also be tested in the Shimano Test Area. Red Bull shows on Saturday and Sunday But not only on the ground, but also in the air, the supporting program at the Mercedes-Benz UCI Mountainbike World Cup in Saalfelden Leogang plays all the pieces. On Saturday at 12:15 p.m., before the final of the downhill, Flying Bull pilot Miguel Hochleitner will conjure up an impressive airshow with artistic aerial displays in the sky with the historic North American T-28B. On Sunday, we will go to BMX. Before the final of the Cross Country Riders Senad Grosic puts on a brilliant show at the event venue. Also not to be missed on the World Cup weekend: the parties in the surrounding bars. The “Warm Up” takes place on Friday in the Kralleralm, the Rider’s Party rises on Saturday in the Outback. Special tip: A free ride with the effis! On Fridays, public access throughout Salzburg is free and on Saturdays and Sundays the event ticket is also the ticket with the SVV & UBB (S-Bahn & REX). For those who cannot attend the double World Cup live, there is the possibility to follow the final races live on Red Bull TV and ORF Sport +. Tickets can be purchased in advance online at www.mtb-weltcup.at/en or on site during the event weekend.
The Mercedes-Benz UCI Mountainbike World Cup is on the calendar at the Epic Bikepark Leogang. In the first double World Cup of the season in the disciplines Cross Country and Downhill, fans are also celebrating a comeback along the track. The concentrated Austrian mountain bike power, around Vali Héll, Mona Mitterwallner and Laura Stigger, proudly presented “their” home World Cup in Saalfelden Leogang during a press conference at the Panzerhalle in Salzburg today. The first double World Cup of the season takes place from 10 to 12 June in the Olympic Cross Country (XCO) and Short Track (XCC) as well as in the Downhill. More than 800 athletes from 44 nations will compete for valuable World Cup points on the challenging routes at the Epic Bikepark Leogang. Among them also the local matador from Saalbach Hinterglemm, downhill World Cup overall winner Vali Héll and the two Tyrolean cross country athletes Mona Mitterwallner and Laura Stigger, who spoke at the press conference about the upcoming home World Cup. “Leogang is a special race and tests me over and over again, but I know and love my home track and – as they say – all good things are three,” explains Vali Héll, who, after suffering an injury at the 2020 World Championships last year due to a fall at the finish line, still had the confidence to win in the elite class, but still managed to take the excellent second place. Laura Stigger returns to Leogang with fond memories. In the Cross Country Olympic last year, she took home the first World Cup podium: “When I think about it today, it’s still goosebumps. It was a very special moment – in front of family and friends. This year, I’m especially looking forward to the spectators who will be cheering us on along the track as well. The past World Cups have shown how important the fans are for our sport,” says Stigger. After Mona Mitterwallner, the third in the group of successful Austrian mountain bike ladies, dominated the previous World Cups in Leogang and of course also the World Championships 2020 in the junior and U23s, this year she returns to her home World Cup for the first time as an elite rider. With high expectations: “I love to ‘climb’, so the sticks, with their steep ascents, are totally suitable for me. Of course, the pressure is huge, especially the one I put on myself. I want to go out there and enjoy it, that's what I set out to do. First and foremost, it's about showing the audience what we're up to," says Mitterwallner. Fans create an exceptional atmosphere on the track For the first time this year, spectators will be allowed along the route. “We expect between 7,000 and 10,000 spectators per day. The previous World Cups have been well presented and this shows how much the sport is booming. The scene is once again burning to be part of it live on site. To be part of it right at the track is a very special feeling,” says Kornel Grundner, Managing Director of the Leoganger Bergbahnen and World Cup organiser. In addition to the spectator areas at the finish, there will also be a moderated hotspot along the downhill route. The Managing Director of Saalfelden Leogang Touristik and World Cup organizer Marco Pointner explains: “This is our third year as a double World Cup or World Cup and the third year with completely different conditions – this year again with spectators on the track for the first time, the paddocks of the teams will be open again. You can really get close to the stars of the scene and it’s the perfect start to the summer season for us,” says Pointner. Also beside the track the full load Bikesport In addition to exciting World Cup decisions, numerous side events and a large exhibition area ensure a considerable plus when it comes to cycling. Among other things, a Red Bull air show, a BMX show with Senad Grosic or a big signing session with the top athletes from FOX Racing await. 150 volunteers are on duty at the World Cup weekend and it is they who contributed with their efforts that athletes, coaches, officials, UCI and media representatives awarded the downhill World Cup the best of the season last year: “Being the best World Cup is what we have been working towards for over ten years,” explains Kornel Grundner: “It is a huge award for us and our team.” Live broadcast to 93 countries The Mercedes-Benz UCI Mountainbike World Cup from 10 to 12 June is not the only venue for pure bike racing. The decisions in the cross country and downhill are broadcast live by the Red Bull Media House and broadcast on 26 TV channels in 93 countries: “The dimensions of the World Cup are now clear from the number of accredited people: more than 2000 people were there last year,” says Pointner. The World Cup is the event spearhead of a region that, as “Austria’s largest bike region” with the towns of Saalbach, Hinterglemm, Leogang and Fieberbrunn, is completely dedicated to the topic of bike. It is also an international flagship for SalzburgerLand, as every fifth guest in SalzburgerLand is now a mountain biker. Since the beginning of the season, Epic Bikepark Leogang and the surrounding trails have focused on sustainability and on new, hand-made, sustainable trails. This is also appreciated by Sportland Councillor Stefan Schnoll: “Saalfelden Leogang is a best practice example when it comes to mountain biking.”
It is time to get ready for another scavenger hunt. Following last year’s tremendous success, Epic Bikepark Leogang is once again preparing to send mountain bike riders all over the bike El Dorado so that they can explore every corner of the Saalfelden Leogang region on the hunt for precious treasure. Up for grabs is a prize package containing products from all of the bike park partners. The biggest Austrian bike region opens its gates on 7 May to kick off their 21st season, with their season-spanning “Gamble Now” Treasure Hunt starting on the same day. Similar to last year, the bike park will become a giant treasure map. The one difference in 2022? The hunt itself will last from the season opening until the end of August. The lucky winner of the prize package will be revealed during BIKE Festival Leogang, which takes place from 16 to 18 September. Think, Shred, Win – that’s all The Treasure Hunt is open to everyone that is planning to ride and explore the trails that the Saalfelden Leogang area has to offer. Besides a serious dose of leg power and stamina, the hunt also requires a bit of brain power. Participants will need to solve a number of emoji riddles on a treasure map before getting on their bikes. The locations on the map will lead riders to QR-coded signs which, when assembled in the right order, will reveal a password that needs to be entered on the Treasure Hunt page, along with proof of shredding, which is your lift ticket, Gravity Card or season pass. Pro Tip: The password changes every two weeks on a Friday, which means that the more riders solve, shred and explore, the more chances they have to win. The Treasure All the hard work will not go unrewarded. Epic Bikepark Leogang and its partners made sure the treasure chest is filled to the brim with some truly amazing prizes. The lucky winner will walk away with a complete, shred-ready package, including a Scott Gambler 920 Downhill mountain bike, as well as prizes such as shoes, clothing, a helmet, a luggage set and more. Yes, you read that right, 'the lucky winner', meaning that one person collects all of the prizes. The Epic Package - full list of prizes: • 1x SCOTT Gambler 920 • 1x Multicover Travel Set incl. World Traveller 125, Wash Bag, Snow Gear Roller and Mission Pro 28 by EVOC • 2x Bike outfits from FOX (1x women, 1x men) • 1x Knee protectors and a Xult Downhill Helmet from IXS • 1x Armega Goggle Anti Fog Clear Lens and Armega Forecast Film System - Full Kit from 100% • 1x Bottle for Life Bundle from MUC-OFF • 1x GoPro HERO 10 Black incl. SD-Card, Chesty & Handlbar Mount from GOPRO • 1x GRAVITA ALPACA X5 + ALPACA TOOL CARRIER saddle and GRAVITA TENSOR shoes by FIZIK • 1x MAXXIS Assegai & Minion tire set "Thousands of cycling guests visit Saalfelden Leogang to ride Epic Bikepark Leogang and the surrounding trails. We wanted to give something back to these visitors while at the same time also offering something new. The successful 2021 Treasure Hunt, with 360 entries in just two months, showed us that we have something special, so we decided to expand upon that. Just like last year, when the winner took home a custom SCOTT Gambler, we prepared a prize package that truly deserves the "Epic" moniker. I'm extremely grateful to all of the support that our partners have once again provided and I wish all of the participants the best of luck." - Kornel Grundner, Managing Director of the Leogang Mountain Railway. For more information regarding the Treasure Hunt: bikepark.saalfelden-leogang.com/giveaway-2022
The Mercedes-Benz UCI Mountainbike World Cup 2022 has started. While the pedals will be pedalled this coming weekend in Albstadt, Germany, the Epic Bikepark Leogang in Saalfelden Leogang is on the move from 10 to 12 June 2022. With a double World Cup and a rich supporting program, the Salzburg bike mecca is once again on the scene. If you want to see local greats such as Hell, Stigger, Mitterwallner and Co. live in action – this year also finally up close on the track – you can already secure tickets now. At the last stop of the Mercedes-Benz UCI Mountainbike World Cup in Petropolis (BRA), Austrian stars Laura Stigger and Mona Mitterwallner left a powerful impression with top placings and are eager for more – especially for the home races in Saalfelden Leogang from 10 to 12 June 2022. These days, however, the first double World Cup of the season brings not only the best cross-country riders in the world, but also the downhill elite around local matador Vali Héll to the Epic Bikepark Leogang. While the decisions in the Cross Country Short Track are made on Friday, on Saturday the downhillers are on the infamous Speedster World Championship track. On Sunday, the cross country riders will compete in the Olympic discipline. Not only Mona Mitterwallner, who was crowned world junior champion in Leogang in 2020, is looking forward to the event in front of a home crowd: “I have great memories of Leogang.” Also Laura Stigger, as well as local matador Vali Héll, want to present themselves in top form. What is certain is that cycling will definitely show its best and most exciting side in Saalfelden Leogang these days. Many elite riders count the Salzburg bike mecca, voted by the UCI as the best downhill World Cup of 2021, as one of their favorite spots - also, thanks to the local atmosphere, which can be experienced again in Leogang style: fans can finally get up close and personal with the world's best right on the track once again. Expo area, team area and much more At the World Cup weekend, however, Saalfelden Leogang offers not only high-class races. The approximately 20,000 visitors will also have an Expo Area with the latest news from the bike world and, of course, the Team Area, where you can look over the shoulder of the world’s best riders. In addition, various side events provide entertainment away from the racing. The two areas are open on Fridays from 12pm to 8pm, Saturdays from 10am to 8pm and Sundays from 9.30am to 5pm. Tickets for this extra class bike weekend are available online: https://tickets.mtb-weltcup.at/ For those who cannot attend the Double World Cup live, there is the possibility to watch the final races live on Red Bull TV. May 7: Hit the trails at Epic Bikepark Leogang And all those who do not just want to watch and are already hot for a ride over Speedsters and Co. – from May 7th there is the opportunity. Epic Bikepark Leogang is opening its doors for the 2022 season.
