Get ready for an exhilarating weekend as the 2026 XC World Cup series returns to the familiar and challenging terrain of Nové Město in the Czech Republic. This event promises to be a thrilling spectacle, offering a unique blend of technical prowess and intense competition. Personally, I find the return to a well-known venue particularly fascinating, as it allows riders and teams to showcase their skills on a course they've mastered over the years.
Racing Preview
The Nové Město track, a favorite among racers, presents a relentless challenge with its technical descents and steep climbs. Even the start/finish straight, usually a simple feature, can become a crucial battleground for overtaking and dramatic sprint finishes. With the series back on European soil, teams will have their full support setups, adding an extra layer of strategy and support for the riders.
Key Contenders
One of the most anticipated aspects of this round is the presence of multi-discipline talents Puck Pieterse and Tom Pidcock. Both have had success at Nové Město, and their participation adds an extra layer of excitement to the elite races. However, it's important to note that Mathieu van der Poel, who was initially listed, will not be competing this week, choosing to save his MTB return for another event.
Specialized Factory Racing will be bolstered by the return of Adrien Boichis, who steps in to fill the void left by injured riders Christopher Blevins and Victor Koretzky. Additionally, Alessandra Keller, fresh from her recovery and an impressive win at the Cape Epic, will be a rider to watch.
Schedule and Format
This week's racing focuses solely on XC, offering a slightly different schedule. After a day of training on Thursday, Friday will see the U23 racers take on the XCC Short Track. The elites will then have their XCC races on Saturday, followed by the U23 XCO races. The weekend will culminate with the long-distance XCO event for the elites on Sunday.
Weather and Conditions
Riders can expect a welcome change from the muddy conditions of the first round in South Korea. The weather forecast predicts warm temperatures and very low chances of rain, creating ideal racing conditions. The Nové Město track, known for its ability to handle moisture, is expected to deliver exciting XC action regardless of any wet weather.
Pinkbike's Predictions
According to Pinkbike's crystal ball, Puck Pieterse is the top pick for the elite women's race. Jenny Rissveds, the current World Champion, will be a strong contender, seeking redemption after her loss in Korea. Alessandra Keller, fresh from her recovery, is also expected to put up a good fight.
For the elite men, Tom Pidcock, with an unbeaten XCO win record at Nové Město, is the favorite for the top step of the podium. Dario Lillo, who had a strong start to his first elite season, and Finn Treudler, who had a mechanical issue at the opening round, are also predicted to be real threats.
Conclusion
The 2026 Nové Město XC World Cup promises to be an action-packed event, with a mix of familiar faces and new contenders. The return to a well-known venue, the challenging course, and the favorable weather conditions all contribute to a recipe for an exciting weekend of racing. Make sure to tune in and catch the live broadcasts to witness the drama and excitement unfold!
