Cyclocross 2025-2026: The Ultimate Guide to a Thrilling Season
Winter is coming, and with it, the adrenaline-pumping world of cyclocross! Despite the rising popularity of gravel racing, cyclocross remains a global favorite, and this season promises to be nothing short of spectacular. But here's where it gets exciting: will legends like Wout van Aert and Mathieu van der Poel dominate the off-road scene once again? Stay tuned as we dive into the 2025-2026 season with a comprehensive guide that’s perfect for both seasoned fans and newcomers alike.
New to cyclocross? Don’t worry! We’ve got you covered with an explainer that breaks down what makes this sport so unique. And for the seasoned enthusiasts, we’ll show you exactly how to catch every muddy, heart-pounding moment of the upcoming season.
The Season Kickoff: The UCI World Cup series begins on November 23 in Tábor, Czech Republic, marking the start of a grueling yet exhilarating journey. But this season, there’s a twist. With Fem van Empel stepping back to focus on life outside racing, the women’s field is wide open. Who will rise to claim her throne? And this is the part most people miss: the emergence of new stars like Lucinda Brand, who’s already proven her mettle with back-to-back victories, and Belgian champion Marion Norbert Riberolle, who’s making waves in the Superprestige series.
Controversy Alert: While van Empel’s decision to prioritize personal well-being over competition has been applauded by many, it’s also sparked debates about the pressures of professional sports. Is it a sign of progress or a missed opportunity for dominance? Weigh in below—we’d love to hear your thoughts!
Riders to Watch:
- Lucinda Brand: Back and better than ever, she’s a force to be reckoned with.
- Puck Pieterse: Returning to the scene, her comeback in Namur on December 15 is highly anticipated.
- Shirin van Anrooij: Overcoming iliac artery endofibrosis, her return in December is nothing short of inspiring.
- Zoe Bäckstedt: The under-23 world champion faces an uphill battle after a training crash, but her resilience is unmatched.
On the men’s side, Michael Vanthourenhout is leading the charge with consecutive Superprestige wins, while Thibau Nys and Joris Nieuwenhuis are making their mark in the X2O Trofee. Across the Atlantic, Andrew Strohmeyer and Eric Brunner are locked in a fierce battle in the Trek USCX series.
Retirement Watch: Lars van der Haar, a cyclocross stalwart, will hang up his bike at the end of the season. Will he go out on a high note? Only time will tell.
Schedules at a Glance:
From the UCI Cyclocross World Cup to the Exact Cross series, we’ve got all the dates and locations you need to plan your viewing parties. Whether you’re in Belgium, the U.S., or beyond, there’s no shortage of action.
Pro Cyclocross Riders:
A star-studded lineup includes Valentin Remondet, Lucinda Brand, Manon Bakker, and many more. Each rider brings their own story and style to the course, making every race a must-watch.
Final Thoughts:
As the season unfolds, one thing is certain: cyclocross 2025-2026 will be a rollercoaster of emotion, drama, and unparalleled athleticism. Who will emerge victorious? Who will surprise us all? Join the conversation, share your predictions, and let’s celebrate this incredible sport together. But here’s the real question: With so many new faces and returning legends, who do you think will dominate the podiums this season? Let us know in the comments!
