MELGAÇO HOSTS STAGE OF THE UCI CONTINENTAL SERIES XCO FROM FEBRUARY 28 TO MARCH 1
A new dimension for international cycling
The UCI Continental Series (CS) was created to offer athletes who do not yet meet the requirements to participate directly in the World Cup, particularly because they are not part of a World Series (WS) team or are not ranked among the top 100 in the world rankings, the opportunity to compete at a high international level.
The top five athletes not belonging to a WS team will be eligible to participate in a round of the UCI World Cup and will be included in a ranking managed by the UEC (European Cycling Union).
At the end of the season, the top five in this ranking will earn the right to compete in all World Cup races in 2027, thus strengthening the link between continental competitions and the highest level of global mountain biking.
Melgaço among the European reference stages
The integration of this stage in the XCO Vila de Melgaço places the event among the reference races in Europe, alongside cities such as Obergessertshausen (Germany), Drozdovo (Slovakia), Göteborg – Skatås (Sweden), Cheile Grădiștei (Romania) and Puy-Saint-Vincent (France).
UCI Mountain Bike Continental Series – XCO 2026
- Melgaço – Portugal
- Obergessertshausen – Germany
- Drozdovo – Slovakia
- Göteborg, Skatås – Sweden
- Cheile Grădiștei – Romania
- Puy-Saint-Vincent – France
A milestone for cycling and for Melgaço
The awarding of this stage to Melgaço reinforces the prestige of the XCO Vila de Melgaço, recognizing the quality of the organization, the technical course, and the involvement of the local community.
This is also an important milestone for cycling in Portugal, contributing to the promotion of sport, tourism, and the country’s image as a premier destination for international mountain biking.
“Hosting a stage of the UCI Continental Series is recognition of the work we have been doing and a unique opportunity to continue to establish Melgaço as a place of nature, sport, and adventure,” the organization emphasizes.
Melgaço is preparing to welcome some of the sport’s best athletes for a weekend that promises high-level competition, excitement, and plenty of adrenaline in the heart of Minho’s natural beauty.