The organizing committee of Granfondo Leiria Region in Portugal has cancelled the UCI Gran Fondo World Championship qualifying race scheduled for 29 March 2026.
On 28 January 2026 the Leiria region was devastated by Storm Kristin with record breaking 200 kpm winds and torrential rain. Trees snapped off at the base and electrical towers toppled like dominoes in the hurricane force winds, leaving the region without power and navigable roads. Local officials report the widespread damage across the region will likely take many months to repair.
In addition, many restaurants and pension housing units are currently closed, with no clear indication of whether they will reopen in time for the gran fondo.
Therefore Granfondo Leiria Region will not take place in 2026, but organizers plan to bring the event back next year as a qualifying race for the 2027 UCI Gran Fondo World Championships.
Photo Credit: Sara Bhavani
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