The Union Européenne de Cyclisme (UEC) wants their European Gravel Championship to get a little more respect and recognition in 2026, according to a recent press release.

“The Union Européenne de Cyclisme (UEC) is proud to announce an exciting upgrade to the UEC European Gravel Championships starting in 2026. To ensure a competitive and fair race environment and increase prestige, a new qualification system will be introduced.”

Gone is the old grassroots style register, show-up, pin on a number and race format used the last few seasons.

Now all pro, elite and age group gravel racers must qualify to participate in the UEC European Gravel Championship taking place in Houffalize, Belgium on 30 August 2026.

Rides may qualify at any of the UCI Gravel World Series races taking place in Europe during the 12 months prior to the championships. To earn a European championship starting spot riders must finish in the Top 25% of their age/gender category.

No racing license is required to compete in the UCI Gravel World Series qualifying races, but to be eligible for a UEC European Gravel Championship title (and champion’s jersey) riders must have a valid UCI racing license issued by a national cycling organization of a European nation.

Just like at the UCI Gran Fondo World Championships, all participants competing for UEC European titles must race in a national jersey representing their home country.

Also, riders finishing in the Top 25% of their age/category at the UEC European Gravel Championship will qualify to compete at the 2026 UCI Gravel World Championship taking place in Australia in October.

Photo Credit: UEC/ Sprint Cycling Agency

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