Well known as a top destination for downhill mountain biking, the resort of Verbier is delighted to be hosting a major international competition for the second year in a row, thus contributing to the sport’s popularity and further increasing the appeal of our natural playground.
From 13 to 15 September, the 5th stage and final of the iXS European Downhill Cup is set to be hosted at the Verbier Bike Park. This exceptional event will bring together some of the world’s best mountain bikers in Verbier for a weekend of intense competition with the goal of claiming the prestigious title of European Cup winner.
More than 300 participants from Switzerland and other countries will race against the stopwatch on the Tire’s Fire track, reputedly one of the most physically and technically demanding courses in the whole of Switzerland with its length of 2.8 km and 480 m elevation drop. Starting from Les Ruinettes (2,080 m), the fastest riders should cross the finish line in Médran (Verbier) in under 4 minutes.
Many local mountain bikers are expected to turn out and defend their home turf – from up-and-coming, talented youngsters right up to world-class elite athletes. The local Verbier Racing team, comprising Delphine Bulliard, Florian Bocquel, Loris Michellod and Fabrice Tirefort (aka Trifon), are ready to seize this opportunity to race in front of their home crowd.
The Saturday will be devoted to training and qualifiers starting at 2:30 pm. The best of the best will then compete in the finals on Sunday 15 September as of 12:30 pm.
The race promises to be a captivating, adrenaline-packed spectacle for the public, who will be able to enjoy a party atmosphere in the finish area with a DJ and food & drink stalls as well as privileged access to the start thanks to the ski lifts.
The complete programme along with further information can be found at www.verbierbikepark.ch.
