Leuven (The Brussels Morning Newspaper): The UCI Gravel World Championships will be held in Leuven, Belgium, on October 5-6, 2024, featuring over 1,500 riders. The women’s race takes place on Saturday, while the men’s race is on Sunday, starting in Halle and finishing in Leuven, showcasing scenic routes through forests and varied terrains.

The World Cup Gravel Race will take place in Leuven on the weekend of October 5 and 6, with over 1,500 gravel bikers coming from Belgium and other countries. The women’s race is on Saturday, and the men’s is on Sunday. The race starts in Halle and goes through beautiful places in Belgium, like Hallerbos, famous for its bluebells, the Zoniënwoud (Sonian Forest), which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the varied terrain of Meerdaalwoud. Riders will ride on a mix of forest paths and gravel roads, finishing on Bondgenotenlaan, a busy street in Leuven.

What activities and opportunities are available at the Gravel World Championships?

It has been said that this event is more than just a race, it’s a display of top-level gravel biking, combining city and nature for an exciting experience for everyone. The route has a tough mix of terrains that show off the special skills of gravel riders, and finishing in the center of Leuven means there will be lots of cheering fans. With professional cyclists, gravel experts, and enthusiastic amateurs all competing, the World Cup Gravel in Leuven will be a weekend that cycling fans will want to attend.

Fans who want to see the race winners can gather at Martelarenplein near the Leuven station. The area will feature a big screen for viewing the races, along with various stands offering food and drinks. Riders will pass through the square multiple times during the event. An afterparty is scheduled for Sunday. Alderman Johan Geleyns (CD&V) has stated that the city is well-prepared for such large events, thanks to the experience gained from the 2021 Cycling World Championships. All parking facilities will be accessible, additional bike parking will be available, and public transport will operate at full capacity. Johan Geleyns says that watching the Clay World Championship from the front row is a special chance for fans to feel the excitement up close. There will be fun activities and food stands, making it a great experience for everyone.