Pal Arinsal Secures UCI Mountain Bike World Cup Through 2029

Organisers of the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup in Pal Arinsal have secured the event's future in Andorra through 2029, with a new three-year agreement pending final signature.

The announcement came during Wednesday's official presentation ahead of this weekend's edition in the La Massana parish station. Around 600-640 riders from 40-44 countries are set to compete, drawing strong interest with ticket sales already exceeding last year's figures. Event director David Hidalgo said the organisation expects to surpass the 6,000 spectators recorded previously.

Improvements this year aim to enhance the spectator experience, including access to previously restricted areas such as the feed zone and podium surroundings. "We always try to add some improvement or surprise," Hidalgo noted. Warner Bros. Discovery, the series promoter, is backing these changes to bring the action closer to fans, beyond just television coverage.

Paul Davis, senior event manager for the UCI MTB World Series, praised Pal Arinsal as an "iconic venue" and essential stop on the global calendar. "We need it. It's a driver for this sport," he said, emphasising its role in the discipline's growth over four decades.

Andorra Turisme director general Betim Budzaku highlighted the event's value for international promotion, with broadcasts reaching 44 countries and more than 200 journalists accredited. La Massana's senior councillor, Eva Sansa, noted the parish's 18-year commitment to major MTB events and forecast full hotel occupancy over the weekend. "We should see it as a national event," she added.

The edition carries a budget of about €1.2 million, underscoring Andorra's ongoing investment in high-profile sports to boost its global profile.