This weekend, Schladming will become the center of the junior downhill world. A total of 32 nations will compete for the unofficial title of Rookie World Champion!
Racement
Quick Facts
| Date | 19.-21. September |
| Location: | Bikepark Schladming |
| Track | 1500 m - 354 hm |
| Riders | 301 |
| Nations | 32 |
| Weather | Sunny, warm, dry |
Maxxis Course Preview
The Schladming-Dachstein region offers the perfect backdrop: a varied, technically challenging course combined with the unique atmosphere that only major downhill events can offer. Here is the course preview from 2024.
YouTube Video
From rookies to international stars
After a long season, the Rookies Championship is more than just a race—it is the culmination of youth development and, for many riders, the gateway to the World Cup. Well-known names such as Jackson Goldstone, Henri Kiefer, and Vali Höll have their roots in the Rookies Cup.
In the recent past, Rosa Zierl also crowned herself junior world champion in Champery. The Alran brothers were already successful at the IRC in Schladming in 2023. This year, Max and Till also stood at the top of the podium on the big stage in Champery.
The weekend overview
Friday: The weekend kicks off with the track walk and the first practice runs – the riders get used to the legendary Planai course and search for the perfect line.
Saturday: The first times are recorded in the seeding run, revealing who has the confidence needed for the grand finale.
Sunday: Then it's all or nothing – against a magnificent backdrop, the final runs decide fame, honor, and the next entry in Schladming history.
When Schladming calls...
then the downhill scene takes notice. The legendary Planai track is not just a venue—it is a myth, a challenge, and a spine-tingling moment all at once. World stars such as Andreas Kolb and Vali Höll have left their mark here. History will be made again this coming weekend when young riders compete on one of the toughest but also most beautiful tracks in Europe.
More news
09.08.2026
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Kopřivná delivers Racing & Style once again
Race Report from Kopřivná Bike ParkSunshine, perfect trails and plenty of young racers: the Rookies Cup made its second stop at Kopřivná Bike Park. With fast runs, glorious weather and spectacular tricks, the weekend turned into a real cycling festival for riders, families and fans.
08.08.2026
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Successful Debut at the Kopřivná Bike Park
Exciting races on a new trackThe VPACE Kids Cup made its first stop at the Kopřivná Bike Park this weekend. On the easy downhill course in the Jeseníky Mountains, 58 children aged five to ten took to the starting line and competed in six age categories in close races for the best times.
04.08.2026
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Registration Bellwald
Season-Final of the iXS DHCThe iXS Downhill Cup is getting ready for its Swiss finale: the series returns to Bellwald from 3 to 5 October. With the start of registration, the countdown to the traditional race in Valais officially begins - time to secure your place at the starting gate!