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From August 30 to September 14, 2025, the Valais region will transform into the global capital of mountain biking by hosting the UCI Mountain Bike World Championships. Sion, at the heart of this exceptional event, will kick off the festivities with an extraordinary opening weekend on August 30 and 31.
The program includes highlights such as the Castle Ride BCVS, a spectacular downhill race combining freestyle and speed; a world record attempt with over 2,000 cyclists; a grand Opening Show featuring unique artistic performances; and a festive exhibition village. An unforgettable weekend blending sports, culture, and conviviality, celebrating the passion for cycling and the treasures of Valais!
Urban Downhill race
On August 30, 2025, Sion will welcome 30 world-renowned riders, combining urban downhill and slopestyle specialists. Starting from Tourbillon Castle, these athletes will take on a course that blends historical landmarks with urban challenges: from the castle steps to downtown obstacles and and features worthy of a World Championship course. An explosive show where speed, skill, and style come together. A unique challenge not to be missed!
The longuest cycling single line
On Sunday, August 31, Sion will attempt to enter the Guinness World Records for the longest bicycle single file. Over 2,000 cyclists are expected to arrive from Saint-Gingolph and Obergoms to gather in Sion, where the line will stretch for 10 kilometers, from Saint-Léonard to Place du Midi. A unique moment not to be missed!
A unique cultural programme
Le Spot, a major player in Sion’s cultural scene, is behind the official Opening Show of these World Championships — a unique performance blending circus arts, dance, and cycling culture, inspired by the energy of mountain biking and the identity of Valais. Presented four times over the weekend, it promises a powerful and poetic visual experience.
The CulturIn agency complements the cultural program with an exclusive concert by KT Gorique and her guests, an art competition, and the live creation of a monumental mural — for a weekend pulsing with culture.
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Sport for all
Throughout the weekend, the city of Sion will come alive with an exhibition and activity village open to everyone. Children will have the chance to safely try out cycling, guided by Cyclophile Sédunois and Valais Wallis Cycling, who will offer fun and age-appropriate introductions. Guided tours will also allow visitors to discover mountain biking, the city of Sion, and the richness of the region — from heritage and nature to local culture. A vintage Mountain bike exhibition, featuring bikes from Marc-André Elsig’s collection at the Chippis Bicycle Museum, will round out this deep dive into the world of cycling.
We are proud and honored to host the 2025 UCI Mountain Bike World Championships. This opening weekend will be a highlight for Sion and a unique opportunity to showcase our heritage and the exceptional places that embody the beauty and soul of our city. With its spectacular route from Tourbillon Castle to the narrow streets of the old town, the Castle Ride will dazzle the large crowds here on site and the global audience watching from around the world.
Philippe Varone
President of the City of Sion
Hosting the opening weekend of the 2025 UCI Mountain Bike World Championships is an exceptional opportunity to showcase Sion far beyond our borders. Through this event, we aim to offer visitors an immersive experience that combines elite sport, centuries-old heritage, and the Valais way of life. This opening weekend will be more than just a competition — it will be a celebration of everything that makes our region unique.
Jean-Marc Jacquod
Director of the Sion Tourist Office
Émile Zola once said: “I love the bicycle for the forgetfulness it brings. No matter how much I walk, I keep thinking. On a bicycle, I ride in the wind, I stop thinking, and nothing is as deliciously restful.”
I'm not so sure the mountain bike athletes riding through our canton during the World Championships would entirely agree with that last sentence!
And hosting these World Championships is hardly a restful task either. It represents a huge commitment from the organizers, the work of hundreds of volunteers, and the support of public institutions...
But together, an idea becomes reality. No, Valais is not resting on its laurels.
Wishing everyone an exciting and successful World Championship!
Raphaël Zuchuat
Municipal Councillor of the City of Sion
R&D Cyling
Rue Pré-Fleuri 6, 1950 Sion
info@rd-cycling.com
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