Mike O'Connor
Fourteen-time world champion Marianne Vos has been confirmed for the 2026 UCI Gravel World Championships in Nannup, Western Australia, on 10 and 11 October.
The Dutch rider, widely regarded as one of the greatest cyclists of her generation, has enjoyed a career spanning more than two decades at the highest level. She is one of only two cyclists to have won world titles across four disciplines, with rainbow jerseys in road, track, cyclo-cross and gravel, as well as two Olympic gold medals.
Vos will return to Western Australia with a chance to make history. The 2026 event marks the first time the UCI Gravel World Championships have been held outside Europe, and Vos will be looking to become the first rider to win the gravel world title twice.
The championships will also be held on the same course as the UCI Gravel World Series qualifier, SEVEN Gravel Race, giving riders a course made up of more than 80 per cent gravel roads.
The Nannup course features a series of climbs ranging from one to 3.5km, with the toughest kilometres coming late in the race. The final summit is just 3.5km from the finish, setting up the potential for a decisive finish.
“The landscapes look beautiful, and with so much elevation, I’m expecting a challenging and selective race. I’m looking forward to exploring the course myself,” Vos said.
“I want to go for the best possible result. Of course I’m dreaming of something beautiful, but I’m also realistic that it will be a challenge. I’ll give it everything I have and see what the day brings.”
Vos has fond memories of Western Australia, having previously competed in the Tour of Margaret River.
“I have such good and special memories of Western Australia, especially from the Tour of Margaret River, so it feels really nice to be going back,” she said.
“There is something very unique about WA; the landscapes, the atmosphere, but also the people. They are warm, genuine and down-to-earth. That is something I really appreciate.”
Event Director Stephen Gallagher said Vos’ presence would add another major name to the event.
“We are delighted to have 2024 world champion Marianne Vos heading down under to compete in Nannup,” Gallagher said.
“As one of the greatest of all time, Marianne will be a name to watch with her versatility and experience as a former winner ensuring thousands of spectators will be treated to some exciting racing as riders battle for the world title and rainbow jersey on a unique and exciting course.”
Mike O’Connor – A keen cyclist, runner and photographer, Mike O’Connor is the Editor of Bicycling Australia. He manages the BA website and social media, and loves promoting the achievements of Australian cyclists.
