UCI Track Champions League Ends as World Cup Takes the Helm

The UCI Track Champions League, a prominent series of track cycling events, has come to an unexpected end after four years. This series, which showcased the world's elite endurance and sprint riders, spanned major cities such as Palma, London, Berlin, and Paris. The webinar series took place from late November through December 2020. In doing so, it named its points leaders as overall champions, rewarding each of them 25,000 euros. The Champions League era came crashing to an end during that second London round. This sorrowful determination followed a very serious crash that nearly killed cyclist Katy Marchant.

The shocking event inspired the kind of solidarity that would force the immediate cancellation of all other performances for the evening. In reaction to these developments and more, UCI President David Lappartient followed up with some amazing news. He announced that the UCI Track World Cup would replace the Champions League.

New Direction with the UCI Track World Cup

The UCI Track World Cup will take its place, starting next season. Here’s what to expect from this brand new, three-round thrill ride. It will feature Olympic-style events alongside an exciting elimination race, a format that has captured the public’s imagination. Ultimately, the World Cup will provide all soccer fans with exhilarating play and true drama. It’ll be critical in deciding how cyclists qualify for the world champs and Olympic Games.

"Over the next three years we will focus on coverage of the UCI Track World Cup," UCI President David Lappartient stated.

The UCI is actively seeking bids from potential host cities for the 2026, 2027, and 2028 editions of the World Cup rounds. Through these efforts, the program hopes to continue increasing track cycling’s prominence on the world sports stage.

Transitioning Towards Future Olympic Games

Following the announcement of the return of the UCI Track World Cup, Lappartient was hopeful for a bright period ahead for track cycling. The new program is an effort to increase the sport’s popularity. That will help hook the general public as we move closer to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.

"I am confident that track cycling will continue to grow in popularity, leading up to and beyond the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games," said Lappartient.