UCI MTB World Championships - Your Ultimate Guide

Nothing matches the intensity, atmosphere and pure passion of the UCI MTB World Championships. Whether you’re a seasoned shredder, weekend warrior or a trail-curious fan, this is your all-access pass to the biggest event in mountain biking.

Waiting at the finish line or streaming the action from your living room -  there’s more than one way to soak it all up. Here are our tips for making the most of the action. 

Key facts at a glance:

• Location: Valais, Switzerland

• Dates: 30.08.25 - 14.09.25

• Disciplines: Downhill, Pump Track, Cross-Country Marathon, Cross-Country Short Track, Cross-Country Olympic, Enduro, E-Mountain Bike Cross-Country

• Venues: 8

• Athletes: 1,500

• Spectators: 150,000

• Tickets: Free for most events

What Are the UCI MTB World Championships?

Launched in 1990 in Durango, Colorado, the UCI Mountain Bike World Championships have grown into the pinnacle of off-road racing. Every year, the world’s best riders go head-to-head across disciplines and terrain, from steep alpine descents to punishing endurance courses.

The Championship is now part of the wider UCI MTB World Series which covers four disciplines (XCO, XCC, DH & EDR) across 15 events and 10 countries around the globe. The World Series was created in 2023 to help bring the disciplines together. This six-month long series culminates in the UCI MTB World Championships, the final event where the top riders battle it out for the cup.

A Short Ride Through MTB Championship History

Mountain biking might feel like a modern sport, but its roots go deep, and the UCI’s rainbow jersey has long been the symbol of world-class cycling. First awarded back in 1927 at the UCI Road World Championships, the iconic white jersey with five bold stripes (blue, red, black, yellow and green) represents the five continents and cycling unity on a global scale.

Fast forward to 1990: the UCI introduced the very first Mountain Bike World Championships in Durango, Colorado. Taking the top step was “Deadly Nedly” Overend, an all-round legend who dominated the early MTB scene. Overend’s influence was massive, spanning six US national championships and a racing career that crossed over into road and cyclo-cross.

Since then, the Championships have grown into the ultimate proving ground for the world’s best riders, defining eras, launching careers and crowning champions in dirt, dust and glory.

Where It’s Going Down: 2025 Venues, Trails & Terrain

The 2025 UCI MTB World Championships head to Valais, Switzerland, an iconic mountain biking mecca known for its world-class trails, alpine terrain and breathtaking views of the Matterhorn.

Past venues include:

• Val di Sole, Italy

• Les Gets, France

• Mont-Sainte-Anne, Canada

• Fort William, Scotland

“I can't wait to explore the Crans-Montana course and enjoy the unique atmosphere at the 2025 Mountain Bike World Championships. Racing in such an exceptional setting promises to be an incredible experience, both for us, the athletes, as well as for the spectators!” - Jolanda Neff, swiss athlete and event ambassador

UCI MTV World Championships 2025 Schedule

Take a look at what’s happening this summer: 

MTB Disciplines Explained

The UCI MTB World Championships showcase a wide range of mountain bike disciplines. 

Here's what to expect:

Want In? Here’s How to Get Involved

You don’t have to race to be part of the action.

Grab a Ticket

If you’re lucky enough to be attending IRL, most of the competition venues are open access. However, you will need a ticket for Champéry and Crans-Montana, on the final  Saturday and Sunday. You can also grab VIP tickets for certain destinations for extra perks such as early entry. 

Join a Ride

If watching from the sidelines won’t suffice, there are several public races to get involved in. Ride to the Champs, Open Enduro and Grand Raid BCVS are open to fans. 

Three safe, marked cycling routes have been set up to Sion, Champéry and Crans-Montana. You can even join virtually via your Peloton. 

• Break the Guinness World Record for the world’s longest bicycle single line from Saint-Léonard to Place du Midi in Sion

• Join the tranquil Route des Rives to the foot of Champéry's DH trail

• Climb through Valais vineyards to reach Crans-Montana for final festivities

Get Out on the Trails

Can’t make it to the action in person? You can still ride the wave. Let the buzz of the Championships fuel your own trail time. Refine your skills and reconnect with why you ride.

These MTB guides might help: 

• Strength training for cyclists

• Tips for MTB beginners

• What to wear mountain biking

Gear Up for Championship Conditions

There’s nothing quite like the buzz of championship week in the mountains. It’s an experience every MTB fan should feel at least once. But the mountain environment can be unpredictable, so it pays to come prepared.

What to pack:

• Layered, breathable MTB clothing: Think moisture-wicking base layers, a wind blocking windbreaker and a lightweight waterproof trail riding jacket in case of mountain showers

• Sturdy footwear: Trails can be muddy or rocky, even for spectators

• Sunscreen & sunglasses: High altitudes mean stronger UV exposure, even if it's cloudy

• Snacks & hydration: Stay energized during long race days with water and trail-friendly fuel

Spectator tips: 

• Arrive early: Popular events like downhill finals and elite cross-country races get crowded fast

• Know the schedule: Download the official race timetable and map so you don’t miss your favorite events or rider

• Pick your spot wisely: Technical descents and tight corners make for the most exciting viewing - expect spills, skills and serious speed

• Bring cash: Not every vendor takes cards, especially at remote venues

• Pro tip: A pair of binoculars and a small folding stool can go a long way if you’re staking out a prime viewing location

Watching from Home? Turn It into an Event

You don’t have to be trackside to feel the adrenaline. Here’s how to get race-day ready at home:

• Check the time zones so you don’t miss your top riders

• Follow rider stats: Keep a second screen open for real-time timing, splits and social media commentary

• Use hashtags, join online forums or host a watch party with fellow fans

• Brush up on the different formats so you can follow the action like a pro

The UCI MTB World Championships are more than just a race. They’re a celebration of everything we love about mountain biking - skill, grit, style and community.

So, whether you're making the pilgrimage or planning to soak it all in from your sofa,  mark your calendar, follow your favorite riders and get ready to experience mountain biking at its peak.

Ready to hit the trails? Explore our performance cycling clothing for men and women.

FAQs about the Mountain Bike Championships

Got more questions about the Championships? Find the answers to some more frequently asked questions here:

• What is the World Mountain Bike Championship 2025? The annual global showdown for elite mountain bikers across multiple disciplines.

• When is the UCI MTB World Championships in 2025? This year’s championship is taking place from 30th August to the 14th of September, 2025.

• How often are the UCI World Championships? Every year in late summer.

• Where are the 2025 UCI World Championships? The Championships are hosted by a different city each year. This year is the turn of Valais, Switzerland.

• How to get there? The nearest airports are Geneva and Zurich Airport from which you can take a train to Valais.

• Where can I watch the MTB World Championships? Large screens will be set up in fan zones across the Valais area. If you’re watching from home, the event will be broadcast live on major sports channels and streamed online.