SAKARYA – The Ayçiçeği (Sunflower) Bike Valley in Sakarya became the epicenter of mountain biking excitement as it hosted the UCI Mountain Bike Eliminator World Championships, drawing elite athletes and thousands of spectators from around the globe.
A World-Class Event in the Heart of Sakarya
Organized by the Sakarya Metropolitan Municipality, the championship featured 71 top riders from 24 countries, all competing on one of Europe’s most technically demanding courses. The event, broadcast live in 110 countries, solidified Sakarya’s reputation as a premier destination for international cycling competitions.
The challenging 600-meter single-lap course tested riders with steep climbs, wall rides, wooden ramps, sloped bridges, and grueling uphill sections. The electrifying atmosphere was amplified by over 10,000 spectators, whose cheers echoed throughout the valley.
Victory and Glory on the Podium
In the women’s category, Ukraine dominated with Mariia Sukhopalova claiming gold, while France’s Isaure Medde took silver and another Ukrainian, Maria Sherstiuk, secured bronze.
The men’s competition saw Sweden’s Edvin Lindh crowned world champion, followed by Austria’s Theo Hauser (silver) and Brazil’s Luiz Henrique Cocuzzi (bronze). The winners earned the prestigious honor of wearing the Rainbow Jersey, symbolizing their world champion status.
A Celebration of Sports and International Recognition
Sakarya Metropolitan Mayor Yusuf Alemdar praised the event, stating: “This major championship has significantly contributed to promoting Sakarya on the global stage. We thank all the fans, athletes, and officials who made this event unforgettable.”
The awards ceremony was attended by notable figures, including Sakarya Governor Rahmi Doğan, Turkish Cycling Federation officials, and international delegates. The celebrations continued into the night with a live concert by İlyas Yalçıntaş and an acrobatic show by Birkan Polat, capping off a spectacular day of sportsmanship and festivity.
With its world-class facilities and passionate crowds, Sakarya has once again proven itself as a leading city for cycling excellence.
