Black Forest ULTRA Bike Marathon: A round that could reshape the 2026 HERO UCI Marathon World Cup

Dear HEROes,

The season is entering a decisive phase as it approaches one of the most iconic events on the calendar. On Sunday, 26 July, the 2026 HERO UCI Cross-country Marathon World Cup heads to Kirchzarten, in the heart of Germany's Black Forest, for the Black Forest ULTRA Bike Marathon - Round 5 of the UCI World Cup series.

Surrounded by spectacular scenery, forest trails and the warm hospitality of one of Germany's most renowned mountain bike destinations, riders from across Europe will take on one of the most exciting challenges of the season.

The course leaves no room for compromise: 118 kilometres and 3,550 metres of elevation gain demand outstanding endurance, race strategy and technical skills. A true marathon course designed to showcase the very best specialists in the discipline and deliver thrilling racing from the first kilometre to the finish line.

The excitement begins even before race day. On Saturday, 25 July at 5:15 pm, the Main Stage at the Sport Stadium in Kirchzarten will host the HERO Race Talk. Four outstanding athletes will take the stage: Dutch National Champion Tim Smeenge, who claimed third place at the 2026 HERO Südtirol Dolomites, Switzerland's Martin Fanger, Poland's Paula Gorycka-Kurmann, and Germany's Bettina Janas.

This is the perfect opportunity to discover what lies behind the performances of the world's top marathon riders—from their training routines and demanding race schedules to life on the World Cup circuit and personal stories shared directly by the athletes themselves.

Can't make it to Germany?

You can follow the race live with Live Tracking of the top Elite riders and Live Timing for all participants at: www.heroucimarathonworldcup.com

You'll also find live updates, photos and exclusive behind-the-scenes content on the official Instagram account: @heroucimarathonworldcup

The Black Forest is ready.

The stars of the HERO UCI Cross-country Marathon World Cup are ready.

Now all that's left is the start gun - and to let the trails decide.

Discover the Round #5 Start List: https://www.heroucimarathonworldcup.com/black-forest-ultra-bike-marathon