UEC also Introduces Qualification System for 2026
The Union Européenne de Cyclisme (UEC) is proud to announce that Granfondo Tre Valli Varesine will organize the 2026 UEC Granfondo European Championships with a 22km time trial on Saturday and a 101km mediofondo or 126km granfondo on Sunday. Varese already hosted the UCI Gran Fondo World Championships in 2018.
The UEC is also excited to upgrade these Granfondo European Championships starting from this season. To ensure a competitive and fair race environment and increase prestige, a new qualification system will be introduced.
Key Changes from 2026 onwards:
- Automatic Qualification via UCI Gran Fondo World Series:
All UCI Gran Fondo World Series qualifier events held within the 12 months prior to the Granfondo European Championships will automatically serve as qualifying events for the European Championships each year. Top 25% per category, holding the sporting nationality of a European nation, qualifies.
- Eligibility for European Titles:
Only riders who have successfully qualified and hold a full-year licence with a valid UCI ID, and who hold the sporting nationality of a European nation, will be eligible to compete for European titles.
- Participation for Recreational Riders:
Amateur riders may still take part in the event with a one-day licence, as is standard in all UCI Gran Fondo World Series events. However, they will not be eligible to compete for European titles. A medical Sport certificate will be required for riders entering with a day licence.
- Wildcards for Host Nation:
The national federation of the host country will receive a number of wildcard entries. These riders may enter without prior qualification. The exact number of wildcards will be confirmed at a later date.
- Qualification for the UCI Gran Fondo World Championships:
The UEC Granfondo European Championships remain a qualifier event for the UCI Gran Fondo World Championships.
- Mandatory national team outfit:
All participants competing for the European titles are expected to race in a jersey representing their nationality, increasing the prestige of the European Championships.
This new structure aims to raise the competitive level of the Granfondo European Championships while maintaining inclusivity for amateur riders. By aligning with the UCI Gran Fondo World Series, UEC ensures that the best riders earn their place on the start line.
