THE WHOOP UCI MOUNTAIN BIKE WORLD SERIES CELEBRATES A SUCCESSFUL SECOND SEASON OF GROWTH
Cutting-edge technology, a wealth of expert pundits, and new partners ensured the second season of the WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series saw record-breaking TV viewership and growth across nearly every metric.
As we look back before the end of the year, we reflect on the season’s key figures, setting the stage for an even more exciting 2025 season.
The 2024 WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series was one for the books, with thrilling competition across all mountain bike formats crowning 44 UCI World Cup winners.
Thanks to a ground-breaking long-term partnership between Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) Sports and the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), in 2023 all major mountain bike formats were unified under a single brand for the first-time, creating the WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series.
2024 marked the second season of WBD Sports taking full control of the global broadcast, promotion and organisation of the Series, expanding its reach and delivering coverage to more fans than ever before.
The 2024 season saw 15 race weekends from April to October, collectively visiting 16 venues in 10 countries across Europe and the Americas. It also introduced six exciting new locations, bringing the WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series to some of mountain bike’s most iconic spots.
The world’s best athletes from 58 nations battled it out in the formats of Cross-country, Enduro and Downhill. Over seven months of competition, 134 UCI World Cup races took place, with a record-breaking 114 athletes reaching the podium. In total, 3,860km of racing took place across most of the UCI World Cup formats.
As we look back before the end of the year, we reflect on the season’s key figures, setting the stage for an even more exciting 2025 season, filled with new challenges and continued growth.
RECORD-BREAKING VIEWERSHIP
The 2024 WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series was broadcast live across the globe on WBD Sports’ network, including Max, Eurosport, discovery+and TNT Sports for the first time ever, as well as a host of broadcast partners, broadening the series’ reach across the world. WBD’s channels saw a significant increase in cumulative views, with an average of half a million more views per round in 2024 vs. 2023.
This season, WBD Sports also expanded its collaboration with more partner broadcasters to bring live racing to fans in 76 countries. Over 20 TV and streaming channels aired more than 2,100 hours of coverage, which were watched for a combined 29 million hours by fans worldwide.
To ensure no winning move was missed, WBD Sports deployed more camera operators, drones, and staff to events, enhancing the experience for the millions of fans watching around the world. Graphics were also optimised to present race data in a clear and accessible format, making it easier for viewers to follow the action.
WHOOP, a key partner in the Series, keeps developing its collaboration with WBD Sports year after year to take the cycling coverage one step further. By integrating WHOOP’s key performance data, including rider heartrate and strain in real time, fans and viewers were able to better connect with the athletes while understanding and witnessing the extraordinary level of elite performance. This innovative feature elevated the WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series broadcast by providing premium insights that not only enhanced the viewing experience but also made the sport more understandable and immersive.
Led by the experienced sports presenter, Kate Mason, pre- and post-race discussions helped set the scene before each UCI World Cup race and provided immediate analysis after the winners crossed the finish line. The coverage also featured expert insights from former riders, including Aaron Gwin, Myriam Nicole, Reece Wilson, or Oli Beckinsale, offering fans a deeper understanding of the races, and elevating the overall commentary.
CONNECTING FANS GLOBALLY
Along with the millions of viewers watching at home, 365,500 fans attended the events on-site. 98%of attending fans said they would return to another WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series event in the future and scored ‘quality of racing’ 9.1 out of 10 for satisfaction, one of the highest scoring metrics this season.
Millions more engaged with the sport through other digital platforms with WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series social media accounts reaching fans in over 160 countries resulting in 230 million impressions, 23% more than last year. A total of 162 million video views were also achieved over the course of the season, up by a staggering 133% vs. 2023.
This season delivered even more action and high-quality racing than the inaugural season in 2023, resulting in increased media attention from news outlets across the world with over 9,600 articles being published in over 40 countries.
KEY DEVELOPMENTS FOR 2025
The 2025 season will bring key developments for the sport and the WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series format, some of these being the biggest overhauls to the discipline since the inception of the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup in 1991. The driving force for the changes is the desire to elevate the Series and ensure that each round is contested by the world’s best athletes and teams, reinforcing its position as the pinnacle of mountain bike.
The new UCI Regulations include a major change in the UCI World Cups qualifying process, now focusing on top riders and teams to increase competition. Starting in 2025, UCI Mountain Bike World Series Teams will register under two categories: Gravity (downhill and enduro) and Endurance (cross-country and short track). Each category will feature up to 20 teams offering better visibility and engagement on the track side and TV across formats. The introduction of unique career numbers will also make it easier for new fans to follow and fall in love with the sport.
This week, the UCI also unveiled additional details about the Continental Series, which will debut on the 2025 UCI Mountain Bike Calendar, offering riders from various continents with new opportunities to qualify for the UCI World Cups.
The 2025 WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series will mark a bold step towards the future of mountain bike, fostering greater competitiveness and fan involvement. More information on the key changes set to take effect from 2025 is available here.
Reflecting on the success of the second season, UCI President David Lappartient said: "The launch of the UCI Mountain Bike World Series two years ago brought significant growth for the mountain bike discipline and helped it grow in popularity. This momentum has only continued and picked up over the past year, as shown by the great results shared today. The innovative spirit behind this progress will also be at work next season, and we are confident that mountain bike still has a lot of room to grow, both as a competitive discipline with different formats and as a popular outdoor activity."
Chris Ball, VP – Cycling Events at Warner Bros. Discovery Sports Europe, said: “The second year of the WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series has been truly extraordinary. From thrilling new venues and innovative technology to heart-stopping racing, we've witnessed record-breaking TV viewership and impressive growth across nearly every metric. We look forward to the exciting changes to next season’s competition, as we continue to elevate the sport to new heights.”
ISO CERTIFIED PROMOTER
As the global promoter of the WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series, WBD Sports has been recognised for its commitment to sustainable event management and been granted ISO20121 certification.
The certification approves the structured framework that integrates sustainability into event management practices. Along with enhancing social inclusion and ensuring economic viability for all stakeholders, the framework includes setting long-term goals, implementing sustainable practices, measuring performance, and continually improving the internal and external processes and policies - all to reduce the environmental and social impact of the large-scale international events promoted while maintaining their economic viability.
For more information about the 2025 calendar and the latest news, keep an eye out on www.ucimtbworldseries.com
whoop UCI 2024 stats/success press releaseTHE WHOOP UCI MOUNTAIN BIKE WORLD SERIES CELEBRATES A SUCCESSFUL SECOND SEASON OF GROWTHCutting-edge technology, a wealth of expert...
whoop UCI 2024 stats/success press release
THE WHOOP UCI MOUNTAIN BIKE WORLD SERIES CELEBRATES A SUCCESSFUL SECOND SEASON OF GROWTH
Cutting-edge technology, a wealth of expert pundits, and new partners ensured the second season of the WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series saw record-breaking TV viewership and growth across nearly every metric.
As we look back before the end of the year, we reflect on the season’s key figures, setting the stage for an even more exciting 2025 season.
The 2024 WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series was one for the books, with thrilling competition across all mountain bike formats crowning 44 UCI World Cup winners.
Thanks to a ground-breaking long-term partnership between Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) Sports and the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), in 2023 all major mountain bike formats were unified under a single brand for the first-time, creating the WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series.
2024 marked the second season of WBD Sports taking full control of the global broadcast, promotion and organisation of the Series, expanding its reach and delivering coverage to more fans than ever before.
The 2024 season saw 15 race weekends from April to October, collectively visiting 16 venues in 10 countries across Europe and the Americas. It also introduced six exciting new locations, bringing the WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series to some of mountain bike’s most iconic spots.
The world’s best athletes from 58 nations battled it out in the formats of Cross-country, Enduro and Downhill. Over seven months of competition, 134 UCI World Cup races took place, with a record-breaking 114 athletes reaching the podium. In total, 3,860km of racing took place across most of the UCI World Cup formats.
As we look back before the end of the year, we reflect on the season’s key figures, setting the stage for an even more exciting 2025 season, filled with new challenges and continued growth.
RECORD-BREAKING VIEWERSHIP
The 2024 WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series was broadcast live across the globe on WBD Sports’ network, including Max, Eurosport, discovery+and TNT Sports for the first time ever, as well as a host of broadcast partners, broadening the series’ reach across the world. WBD’s channels saw a significant increase in cumulative views, with an average of half a million more views per round in 2024 vs. 2023.
This season, WBD Sports also expanded its collaboration with more partner broadcasters to bring live racing to fans in 76 countries. Over 20 TV and streaming channels aired more than 2,100 hours of coverage, which were watched for a combined 29 million hours by fans worldwide.
To ensure no winning move was missed, WBD Sports deployed more camera operators, drones, and staff to events, enhancing the experience for the millions of fans watching around the world. Graphics were also optimised to present race data in a clear and accessible format, making it easier for viewers to follow the action.
WHOOP, a key partner in the Series, keeps developing its collaboration with WBD Sports year after year to take the cycling coverage one step further. By integrating WHOOP’s key performance data, including rider heartrate and strain in real time, fans and viewers were able to better connect with the athletes while understanding and witnessing the extraordinary level of elite performance. This innovative feature elevated the WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series broadcast by providing premium insights that not only enhanced the viewing experience but also made the sport more understandable and immersive.
Led by the experienced sports presenter, Kate Mason, pre- and post-race discussions helped set the scene before each UCI World Cup race and provided immediate analysis after the winners crossed the finish line. The coverage also featured expert insights from former riders, including Aaron Gwin, Myriam Nicole, Reece Wilson, or Oli Beckinsale, offering fans a deeper understanding of the races, and elevating the overall commentary.
CONNECTING FANS GLOBALLY
Along with the millions of viewers watching at home, 365,500 fans attended the events on-site. 98%of attending fans said they would return to another WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series event in the future and scored ‘quality of racing’ 9.1 out of 10 for satisfaction, one of the highest scoring metrics this season.
Millions more engaged with the sport through other digital platforms with WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series social media accounts reaching fans in over 160 countries resulting in 230 million impressions, 23% more than last year. A total of 162 million video views were also achieved over the course of the season, up by a staggering 133% vs. 2023.
This season delivered even more action and high-quality racing than the inaugural season in 2023, resulting in increased media attention from news outlets across the world with over 9,600 articles being published in over 40 countries.
KEY DEVELOPMENTS FOR 2025
The 2025 season will bring key developments for the sport and the WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series format, some of these being the biggest overhauls to the discipline since the inception of the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup in 1991. The driving force for the changes is the desire to elevate the Series and ensure that each round is contested by the world’s best athletes and teams, reinforcing its position as the pinnacle of mountain bike.
The new UCI Regulations include a major change in the UCI World Cups qualifying process, now focusing on top riders and teams to increase competition. Starting in 2025, UCI Mountain Bike World Series Teams will register under two categories: Gravity (downhill and enduro) and Endurance (cross-country and short track). Each category will feature up to 20 teams offering better visibility and engagement on the track side and TV across formats. The introduction of unique career numbers will also make it easier for new fans to follow and fall in love with the sport.
This week, the UCI also unveiled additional details about the Continental Series, which will debut on the 2025 UCI Mountain Bike Calendar, offering riders from various continents with new opportunities to qualify for the UCI World Cups.
The 2025 WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series will mark a bold step towards the future of mountain bike, fostering greater competitiveness and fan involvement. More information on the key changes set to take effect from 2025 is available here.
Reflecting on the success of the second season, UCI President David Lappartient said: "The launch of the UCI Mountain Bike World Series two years ago brought significant growth for the mountain bike discipline and helped it grow in popularity. This momentum has only continued and picked up over the past year, as shown by the great results shared today. The innovative spirit behind this progress will also be at work next season, and we are confident that mountain bike still has a lot of room to grow, both as a competitive discipline with different formats and as a popular outdoor activity."
Chris Ball, VP – Cycling Events at Warner Bros. Discovery Sports Europe, said: “The second year of the WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series has been truly extraordinary. From thrilling new venues and innovative technology to heart-stopping racing, we've witnessed record-breaking TV viewership and impressive growth across nearly every metric. We look forward to the exciting changes to next season’s competition, as we continue to elevate the sport to new heights.”
ISO CERTIFIED PROMOTER
As the global promoter of the WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series, WBD Sports has been recognised for its commitment to sustainable event management and been granted ISO20121 certification.
The certification approves the structured framework that integrates sustainability into event management practices. Along with enhancing social inclusion and ensuring economic viability for all stakeholders, the framework includes setting long-term goals, implementing sustainable practices, measuring performance, and continually improving the internal and external processes and policies - all to reduce the environmental and social impact of the large-scale international events promoted while maintaining their economic viability.
For more information about the 2025 calendar and the latest news, keep an eye out on www.ucimtbworldseries.com
iXS announces 2025 Rookies Championship in Schladming - PR below
After the races of the iXS Downhill Cup and the iXS European Downhill Cup were published in the last few days, we now have the next news. The biggest highlight of the season for young riders will once again be held in Schladming, Austria.
The iXS International Rookies Championships are the most important event for young riders. This competition was first introduced over a decade ago as an unofficial world championship for all age groups that do not have a world championship title awarded by the world governing body, the UCI. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the event. To mark the occasion, the championship will no longer be held as part of the Rookies Cup, but will become a stand-alone competition that will focus all attention on the prestigious titles.
The venue for the iXS Rookies Champs will once again be none other than Schladming Dachstein, which should be familiar to anyone who has anything to do with mountain biking. In addition to its excellent reputation as a venue for World Cups, European Cups and Rookies races, the Planai is probably one of the most popular destinations for bike park visits. Countless trails in all levels of difficulty offer just the right playground for everyone and the accommodation has also adapted to the clientele. This means that many families will certainly find it convenient to have another trip like this on the agenda at the end of the season.
A look at the history of the competition shows what big shoes to fill. Famous names have already secured these titles in the past, including Jackson Goldstone (CAN), Vali Höll (AUT), Henri Kiefer (GER), Anna Newkirk (USA) and Gabriel Wibmer (AUT). So we can look forward to the anniversary edition. It was already announced last year that some big teams would be setting their sights on Schladming, not least due to the changes in the World Cup.
Please excuse me, but what the flying f*ck is Whoop, actually? I never got it all season long. Is it a new brand? Is it a media entity? Is it the new Rocky Roads (hello 2011!)? What is it?
Please excuse me, but what the flying f*ck is Whoop, actually? I never got it all season long.Is it a new brand? Is it a media...
Please excuse me, but what the flying f*ck is Whoop, actually? I never got it all season long. Is it a new brand? Is it a media entity? Is it the new Rocky Roads (hello 2011!)? What is it?
Please excuse me, but what the flying f*ck is Whoop, actually? I never got it all season long.Is it a new brand? Is it a media...
Please excuse me, but what the flying f*ck is Whoop, actually? I never got it all season long. Is it a new brand? Is it a media entity? Is it the new Rocky Roads (hello 2011!)? What is it?
Thanks, Mx
it's impossible for me to read that without hearing this:
Growth from being on an obscure GCN network to Max? Shocking. Bet ir drops it they put it behind a double paywall. Max is something people pay for but adding sports pack is too much.
Please excuse me, but what the flying f*ck is Whoop, actually? I never got it all season long.Is it a new brand? Is it a media...
Please excuse me, but what the flying f*ck is Whoop, actually? I never got it all season long. Is it a new brand? Is it a media entity? Is it the new Rocky Roads (hello 2011!)? What is it?
The European Continental series consists of 2 (!) races, what a joke.
So far, these series will consist of twelve events in the Americas (seven Olympic cross-country and five downhill events), nine events in Europe (four Olympic cross-country, four downhill, and one combining both formats), and seven events in Oceania (two Olympic cross-country, four downhill, and one combining both formats).
Please excuse me, but what the flying f*ck is Whoop, actually? I never got it all season long.Is it a new brand? Is it a media...
Please excuse me, but what the flying f*ck is Whoop, actually? I never got it all season long. Is it a new brand? Is it a media entity? Is it the new Rocky Roads (hello 2011!)? What is it?
What kills me is that the UCI and its partner(s) turning MTB World Cup racing into an elitist sport, we won't be introduced to riders like Theo. Such an awesome ambassador to O U R sport and phuck the UCI in their partner(s) for making them disappear and never even happen in the first place.
So far, these series will consist of twelve events in the Americas (seven Olympic cross-country and five downhill events), nine events in Europe (four Olympic cross-country...
So far, these series will consist of twelve events in the Americas (seven Olympic cross-country and five downhill events), nine events in Europe (four Olympic cross-country, four downhill, and one combining both formats), and seven events in Oceania (two Olympic cross-country, four downhill, and one combining both formats).
Reading is difficult sometimes.
You are a funny dude.
Can you show or provide a link to these events in the actual UCI calendar? Currently there are just 2 DH races listed, one in April, one in August. Thank you so much.
So far, these series will consist of twelve events in the Americas (seven Olympic cross-country and five downhill events), nine events in Europe (four Olympic cross-country...
So far, these series will consist of twelve events in the Americas (seven Olympic cross-country and five downhill events), nine events in Europe (four Olympic cross-country, four downhill, and one combining both formats), and seven events in Oceania (two Olympic cross-country, four downhill, and one combining both formats).
You are a funny dude. Can you show or provide a link to these events in the actual UCI calendar? Currently there are just 2 DH races...
You are a funny dude.
Can you show or provide a link to these events in the actual UCI calendar? Currently there are just 2 DH races listed, one in April, one in August. Thank you so much.
Maybe the deals aren't done yet? They wouldn't announce five races unless there are actually five races and the announcement says "keep an eye out for website". One of those two races is an ixs race already so maybe there will be more with them. Funny is when you go on a tantrum and call it a joke when they actually announced it will be five.
whoop UCI 2024 stats/success press releaseTHE WHOOP UCI MOUNTAIN BIKE WORLD SERIES CELEBRATES A SUCCESSFUL SECOND SEASON OF GROWTHCutting-edge technology, a wealth of expert...
whoop UCI 2024 stats/success press release
THE WHOOP UCI MOUNTAIN BIKE WORLD SERIES CELEBRATES A SUCCESSFUL SECOND SEASON OF GROWTH
Cutting-edge technology, a wealth of expert pundits, and new partners ensured the second season of the WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series saw record-breaking TV viewership and growth across nearly every metric.
As we look back before the end of the year, we reflect on the season’s key figures, setting the stage for an even more exciting 2025 season.
The 2024 WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series was one for the books, with thrilling competition across all mountain bike formats crowning 44 UCI World Cup winners.
Thanks to a ground-breaking long-term partnership between Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) Sports and the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), in 2023 all major mountain bike formats were unified under a single brand for the first-time, creating the WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series.
2024 marked the second season of WBD Sports taking full control of the global broadcast, promotion and organisation of the Series, expanding its reach and delivering coverage to more fans than ever before.
The 2024 season saw 15 race weekends from April to October, collectively visiting 16 venues in 10 countries across Europe and the Americas. It also introduced six exciting new locations, bringing the WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series to some of mountain bike’s most iconic spots.
The world’s best athletes from 58 nations battled it out in the formats of Cross-country, Enduro and Downhill. Over seven months of competition, 134 UCI World Cup races took place, with a record-breaking 114 athletes reaching the podium. In total, 3,860km of racing took place across most of the UCI World Cup formats.
As we look back before the end of the year, we reflect on the season’s key figures, setting the stage for an even more exciting 2025 season, filled with new challenges and continued growth.
RECORD-BREAKING VIEWERSHIP
The 2024 WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series was broadcast live across the globe on WBD Sports’ network, including Max, Eurosport, discovery+and TNT Sports for the first time ever, as well as a host of broadcast partners, broadening the series’ reach across the world. WBD’s channels saw a significant increase in cumulative views, with an average of half a million more views per round in 2024 vs. 2023.
This season, WBD Sports also expanded its collaboration with more partner broadcasters to bring live racing to fans in 76 countries. Over 20 TV and streaming channels aired more than 2,100 hours of coverage, which were watched for a combined 29 million hours by fans worldwide.
To ensure no winning move was missed, WBD Sports deployed more camera operators, drones, and staff to events, enhancing the experience for the millions of fans watching around the world. Graphics were also optimised to present race data in a clear and accessible format, making it easier for viewers to follow the action.
WHOOP, a key partner in the Series, keeps developing its collaboration with WBD Sports year after year to take the cycling coverage one step further. By integrating WHOOP’s key performance data, including rider heartrate and strain in real time, fans and viewers were able to better connect with the athletes while understanding and witnessing the extraordinary level of elite performance. This innovative feature elevated the WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series broadcast by providing premium insights that not only enhanced the viewing experience but also made the sport more understandable and immersive.
Led by the experienced sports presenter, Kate Mason, pre- and post-race discussions helped set the scene before each UCI World Cup race and provided immediate analysis after the winners crossed the finish line. The coverage also featured expert insights from former riders, including Aaron Gwin, Myriam Nicole, Reece Wilson, or Oli Beckinsale, offering fans a deeper understanding of the races, and elevating the overall commentary.
CONNECTING FANS GLOBALLY
Along with the millions of viewers watching at home, 365,500 fans attended the events on-site. 98%of attending fans said they would return to another WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series event in the future and scored ‘quality of racing’ 9.1 out of 10 for satisfaction, one of the highest scoring metrics this season.
Millions more engaged with the sport through other digital platforms with WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series social media accounts reaching fans in over 160 countries resulting in 230 million impressions, 23% more than last year. A total of 162 million video views were also achieved over the course of the season, up by a staggering 133% vs. 2023.
This season delivered even more action and high-quality racing than the inaugural season in 2023, resulting in increased media attention from news outlets across the world with over 9,600 articles being published in over 40 countries.
KEY DEVELOPMENTS FOR 2025
The 2025 season will bring key developments for the sport and the WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series format, some of these being the biggest overhauls to the discipline since the inception of the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup in 1991. The driving force for the changes is the desire to elevate the Series and ensure that each round is contested by the world’s best athletes and teams, reinforcing its position as the pinnacle of mountain bike.
The new UCI Regulations include a major change in the UCI World Cups qualifying process, now focusing on top riders and teams to increase competition. Starting in 2025, UCI Mountain Bike World Series Teams will register under two categories: Gravity (downhill and enduro) and Endurance (cross-country and short track). Each category will feature up to 20 teams offering better visibility and engagement on the track side and TV across formats. The introduction of unique career numbers will also make it easier for new fans to follow and fall in love with the sport.
This week, the UCI also unveiled additional details about the Continental Series, which will debut on the 2025 UCI Mountain Bike Calendar, offering riders from various continents with new opportunities to qualify for the UCI World Cups.
The 2025 WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series will mark a bold step towards the future of mountain bike, fostering greater competitiveness and fan involvement. More information on the key changes set to take effect from 2025 is available here.
Reflecting on the success of the second season, UCI President David Lappartient said: "The launch of the UCI Mountain Bike World Series two years ago brought significant growth for the mountain bike discipline and helped it grow in popularity. This momentum has only continued and picked up over the past year, as shown by the great results shared today. The innovative spirit behind this progress will also be at work next season, and we are confident that mountain bike still has a lot of room to grow, both as a competitive discipline with different formats and as a popular outdoor activity."
Chris Ball, VP – Cycling Events at Warner Bros. Discovery Sports Europe, said: “The second year of the WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series has been truly extraordinary. From thrilling new venues and innovative technology to heart-stopping racing, we've witnessed record-breaking TV viewership and impressive growth across nearly every metric. We look forward to the exciting changes to next season’s competition, as we continue to elevate the sport to new heights.”
ISO CERTIFIED PROMOTER
As the global promoter of the WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series, WBD Sports has been recognised for its commitment to sustainable event management and been granted ISO20121 certification.
The certification approves the structured framework that integrates sustainability into event management practices. Along with enhancing social inclusion and ensuring economic viability for all stakeholders, the framework includes setting long-term goals, implementing sustainable practices, measuring performance, and continually improving the internal and external processes and policies - all to reduce the environmental and social impact of the large-scale international events promoted while maintaining their economic viability.
For more information about the 2025 calendar and the latest news, keep an eye out on www.ucimtbworldseries.com
Oceania. 4 month season with fairly reasonable flights. America. 10 month season. 2 hemispheres. 5 countries. Not very ideal.also what metrics are they using to call the...
Oceania. 4 month season with fairly reasonable flights.
America. 10 month season. 2 hemispheres. 5 countries. Not very ideal.
also what metrics are they using to call the World Cup series “sustainable”?
Here is an idea, the Americans and Euro's come to Oceania and live in a Sprinter van for 10 months like the Vanzacs have for 20 years lol
Apologies if this has been answered, but I dug through the press release and this thread and could not find anything. Are riders on the top World Cup teams allowed to race continental series races as well? In my mind the answer would be no to allow up and comers to gain max points at those races, but I don’t see anything stating that.
Apologies if this has been answered, but I dug through the press release and this thread and could not find anything. Are riders on the top...
Apologies if this has been answered, but I dug through the press release and this thread and could not find anything. Are riders on the top World Cup teams allowed to race continental series races as well? In my mind the answer would be no to allow up and comers to gain max points at those races, but I don’t see anything stating that.
I had the same thought. It seems like if you are on a MTB World Cup Series team you would not be allowed to race. Which a lot of them do for "training" etc.
Apologies if this has been answered, but I dug through the press release and this thread and could not find anything. Are riders on the top...
Apologies if this has been answered, but I dug through the press release and this thread and could not find anything. Are riders on the top World Cup teams allowed to race continental series races as well? In my mind the answer would be no to allow up and comers to gain max points at those races, but I don’t see anything stating that.
I had the same thought. It seems like if you are on a MTB World Cup Series team you would not be allowed to race. Which...
I had the same thought. It seems like if you are on a MTB World Cup Series team you would not be allowed to race. Which a lot of them do for "training" etc.
Another option would be to allow WC pros to race but exclude them from the UCI/WC qualifying points. If WC pro wins a race the qualifying points go to the first non-WC pro.
Apologies if this has been answered, but I dug through the press release and this thread and could not find anything. Are riders on the top...
Apologies if this has been answered, but I dug through the press release and this thread and could not find anything. Are riders on the top World Cup teams allowed to race continental series races as well? In my mind the answer would be no to allow up and comers to gain max points at those races, but I don’t see anything stating that.
I had the same thought. It seems like if you are on a MTB World Cup Series team you would not be allowed to race. Which...
I had the same thought. It seems like if you are on a MTB World Cup Series team you would not be allowed to race. Which a lot of them do for "training" etc.
Another option would be to allow WC pros to race but exclude them from the UCI/WC qualifying points. If WC pro wins a race the qualifying...
Another option would be to allow WC pros to race but exclude them from the UCI/WC qualifying points. If WC pro wins a race the qualifying points go to the first non-WC pro.
That does seem like the ideal solution. Allows everyone to get the track time they need and points to the ones trying to break through as well as seeing first hand the speed at the top level.
Cairns, Rotorua, Christchurch, SilverStar all crankworx event and santiago des beiros ixs EDC.
whoop UCI 2024 stats/success press release
THE WHOOP UCI MOUNTAIN BIKE WORLD SERIES CELEBRATES A SUCCESSFUL SECOND SEASON OF GROWTH
As we look back before the end of the year, we reflect on the season’s key figures, setting the stage for an even more exciting 2025 season.
The 2024 WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series was one for the books, with thrilling competition across all mountain bike formats crowning 44 UCI World Cup winners.
Thanks to a ground-breaking long-term partnership between Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) Sports and the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), in 2023 all major mountain bike formats were unified under a single brand for the first-time, creating the WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series.
2024 marked the second season of WBD Sports taking full control of the global broadcast, promotion and organisation of the Series, expanding its reach and delivering coverage to more fans than ever before.
The 2024 season saw 15 race weekends from April to October, collectively visiting 16 venues in 10 countries across Europe and the Americas. It also introduced six exciting new locations, bringing the WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series to some of mountain bike’s most iconic spots.
The world’s best athletes from 58 nations battled it out in the formats of Cross-country, Enduro and Downhill. Over seven months of competition, 134 UCI World Cup races took place, with a record-breaking 114 athletes reaching the podium. In total, 3,860km of racing took place across most of the UCI World Cup formats.
As we look back before the end of the year, we reflect on the season’s key figures, setting the stage for an even more exciting 2025 season, filled with new challenges and continued growth.
RECORD-BREAKING VIEWERSHIP
The 2024 WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series was broadcast live across the globe on WBD Sports’ network, including Max, Eurosport, discovery+ and TNT Sports for the first time ever, as well as a host of broadcast partners, broadening the series’ reach across the world. WBD’s channels saw a significant increase in cumulative views, with an average of half a million more views per round in 2024 vs. 2023.
This season, WBD Sports also expanded its collaboration with more partner broadcasters to bring live racing to fans in 76 countries. Over 20 TV and streaming channels aired more than 2,100 hours of coverage, which were watched for a combined 29 million hours by fans worldwide.
To ensure no winning move was missed, WBD Sports deployed more camera operators, drones, and staff to events, enhancing the experience for the millions of fans watching around the world. Graphics were also optimised to present race data in a clear and accessible format, making it easier for viewers to follow the action.
WHOOP, a key partner in the Series, keeps developing its collaboration with WBD Sports year after year to take the cycling coverage one step further. By integrating WHOOP’s key performance data, including rider heartrate and strain in real time, fans and viewers were able to better connect with the athletes while understanding and witnessing the extraordinary level of elite performance. This innovative feature elevated the WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series broadcast by providing premium insights that not only enhanced the viewing experience but also made the sport more understandable and immersive.
Led by the experienced sports presenter, Kate Mason, pre- and post-race discussions helped set the scene before each UCI World Cup race and provided immediate analysis after the winners crossed the finish line. The coverage also featured expert insights from former riders, including Aaron Gwin, Myriam Nicole, Reece Wilson, or Oli Beckinsale, offering fans a deeper understanding of the races, and elevating the overall commentary.
CONNECTING FANS GLOBALLY
Along with the millions of viewers watching at home, 365,500 fans attended the events on-site. 98% of attending fans said they would return to another WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series event in the future and scored ‘quality of racing’ 9.1 out of 10 for satisfaction, one of the highest scoring metrics this season.
Millions more engaged with the sport through other digital platforms with WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series social media accounts reaching fans in over 160 countries resulting in 230 million impressions, 23% more than last year. A total of 162 million video views were also achieved over the course of the season, up by a staggering 133% vs. 2023.
This season delivered even more action and high-quality racing than the inaugural season in 2023, resulting in increased media attention from news outlets across the world with over 9,600 articles being published in over 40 countries.
KEY DEVELOPMENTS FOR 2025
The new UCI Regulations include a major change in the UCI World Cups qualifying process, now focusing on top riders and teams to increase competition. Starting in 2025, UCI Mountain Bike World Series Teams will register under two categories: Gravity (downhill and enduro) and Endurance (cross-country and short track). Each category will feature up to 20 teams offering better visibility and engagement on the track side and TV across formats. The introduction of unique career numbers will also make it easier for new fans to follow and fall in love with the sport.
This week, the UCI also unveiled additional details about the Continental Series, which will debut on the 2025 UCI Mountain Bike Calendar, offering riders from various continents with new opportunities to qualify for the UCI World Cups.
The 2025 WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series will mark a bold step towards the future of mountain bike, fostering greater competitiveness and fan involvement. More information on the key changes set to take effect from 2025 is available here.
Chris Ball, VP – Cycling Events at Warner Bros. Discovery Sports Europe, said: “The second year of the WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series has been truly extraordinary. From thrilling new venues and innovative technology to heart-stopping racing, we've witnessed record-breaking TV viewership and impressive growth across nearly every metric. We look forward to the exciting changes to next season’s competition, as we continue to elevate the sport to new heights.”
ISO CERTIFIED PROMOTER
The certification approves the structured framework that integrates sustainability into event management practices. Along with enhancing social inclusion and ensuring economic viability for all stakeholders, the framework includes setting long-term goals, implementing sustainable practices, measuring performance, and continually improving the internal and external processes and policies - all to reduce the environmental and social impact of the large-scale international events promoted while maintaining their economic viability.
WHOOP THERE IT IS
iXS announces 2025 Rookies Championship in Schladming - PR below
After the races of the iXS Downhill Cup and the iXS European Downhill Cup were published in the last few days, we now have the next news. The biggest highlight of the season for young riders will once again be held in Schladming, Austria.
The iXS International Rookies Championships are the most important event for young riders. This competition was first introduced over a decade ago as an unofficial world championship for all age groups that do not have a world championship title awarded by the world governing body, the UCI. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the event. To mark the occasion, the championship will no longer be held as part of the Rookies Cup, but will become a stand-alone competition that will focus all attention on the prestigious titles.
The venue for the iXS Rookies Champs will once again be none other than Schladming Dachstein, which should be familiar to anyone who has anything to do with mountain biking. In addition to its excellent reputation as a venue for World Cups, European Cups and Rookies races, the Planai is probably one of the most popular destinations for bike park visits. Countless trails in all levels of difficulty offer just the right playground for everyone and the accommodation has also adapted to the clientele. This means that many families will certainly find it convenient to have another trip like this on the agenda at the end of the season.
A look at the history of the competition shows what big shoes to fill. Famous names have already secured these titles in the past, including Jackson Goldstone (CAN), Vali Höll (AUT), Henri Kiefer (GER), Anna Newkirk (USA) and Gabriel Wibmer (AUT). So we can look forward to the anniversary edition. It was already announced last year that some big teams would be setting their sights on Schladming, not least due to the changes in the World Cup.
Please excuse me, but what the flying f*ck is Whoop, actually? I never got it all season long.
Is it a new brand? Is it a media entity? Is it the new Rocky Roads (hello 2011!)? What is it?
Thanks,
Mx
I'm not sure you're serious but just in case.
https://www.whoop.com
With all the announcements of these new series it sure doesn't seem like WB is killing the sport, maybe pruning it.
it's impossible for me to read that without hearing this:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z-FPimCmbX8
2 of the Americas races happen after the World Cup season is over.
is the allure that the top X (whatever the rules say) continental series riders get slots into '26 WC?
Growth from being on an obscure GCN network to Max? Shocking. Bet ir drops it they put it behind a double paywall. Max is something people pay for but adding sports pack is too much.
All I can think about it is Theo E talking about how wrong the heart rate data is that they show on the broadcast.
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/VvuT4i6EA6Y
The European Continental series consists of 2 (!) races, what a joke.
So far, these series will consist of twelve events in the Americas (seven Olympic cross-country and five downhill events), nine events in Europe (four Olympic cross-country, four downhill, and one combining both formats), and seven events in Oceania (two Olympic cross-country, four downhill, and one combining both formats).
Reading is difficult sometimes.
So damn funny!
What kills me is that the UCI and its partner(s) turning MTB World Cup racing into an elitist sport, we won't be introduced to riders like Theo. Such an awesome ambassador to O U R sport and phuck the UCI in their partner(s) for making them disappear and never even happen in the first place.
You are a funny dude.
Can you show or provide a link to these events in the actual UCI calendar? Currently there are just 2 DH races listed, one in April, one in August. Thank you so much.
Maybe the deals aren't done yet? They wouldn't announce five races unless there are actually five races and the announcement says "keep an eye out for website". One of those two races is an ixs race already so maybe there will be more with them. Funny is when you go on a tantrum and call it a joke when they actually announced it will be five.
Dude, I'm not on a tantrum. My initial post was referring to this one and the UCI calendar: https://www.vitalmtb.com/forums/hub/2025-race-talk?page=11#comment-5488… - if this stands, it's indeed a joke for Europe.
So you say they announce the 2025 calendar without having the dates and races set? Well, that's another joke then isn't it? 😉
Besides, how could you be on a Tantrum. Although they had a cool suspension design, that brand seemingly never left the ground.
So you say they announce the 2025 calendar without having the dates and races set? Well, that's another joke then isn't it? 😉
Nope, that's just Europe.
Oceania. 4 month season with fairly reasonable flights.
America. 10 month season. 2 hemispheres. 5 countries. Not very ideal.
also what metrics are they using to call the World Cup series “sustainable”?
wow, a lot to potentially debunked....🤯
Here is an idea, the Americans and Euro's come to Oceania and live in a Sprinter van for 10 months like the Vanzacs have for 20 years lol
Apologies if this has been answered, but I dug through the press release and this thread and could not find anything. Are riders on the top World Cup teams allowed to race continental series races as well? In my mind the answer would be no to allow up and comers to gain max points at those races, but I don’t see anything stating that.
I had the same thought. It seems like if you are on a MTB World Cup Series team you would not be allowed to race. Which a lot of them do for "training" etc.
Another option would be to allow WC pros to race but exclude them from the UCI/WC qualifying points. If WC pro wins a race the qualifying points go to the first non-WC pro.
That does seem like the ideal solution. Allows everyone to get the track time they need and points to the ones trying to break through as well as seeing first hand the speed at the top level.
2025 Southwest Regional Gravity Champs Series at Bootleg dates announced.
Enduro is dead, long live super D.
Super D was fun! Painful, but fun.
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