Hello everyone,
I want to share just how excited I am about the Mapei Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race in 2026. It is shaping up to be an absolutely epic tenth edition.
The 2026 races will feature the largest and strongest field of teams and riders in the race’s history. All UCI WorldTour men’s and women’s teams will be on the start line, joined by the Australian National Team in the men’s race and the Tudor Pro Cycling Team from Switzerland. It is an extraordinary line-up, and we could not be more excited.
After ten years of hard work, we are determined to make this landmark edition truly memorable for everyone. That means not only for spectators at the start and finish in Geelong, and those lining the roads in Barwon Heads, Torquay, and on the iconic Challambra Climb (Wall of Challambra), but also for fans watching from home, and for the riders and teams themselves.
2026 will be a major start to a very busy season on the UCI International Calendar. As a WorldTour One Day Classics event, the Mapei Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race plays a crucial role early in the global cycling season, and its significance continues to grow year after year.
In the women’s race, we are delighted to welcome back four past winners, all returning to contest the tenth edition of the Mapei Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race – Women. In the men’s race, three former winners will line up, along with one past winner returning in the role of team sports director. Having so many past champions involved adds a unique and special dimension to this anniversary edition.
We are also extremely proud of the Surf Coast Classic women’s and men’s races, which have now achieved UCI ProSeries status. This is the second-highest classification available and represents a major milestone. The riders are genuinely excited to compete in these races, which have become an essential and highly valued part of the Mapei Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race event week. Our sincere thanks go to Surf Coast Shire for their continued support in making this achievement possible.
Beyond elite racing, I would also like to congratulate everyone involved in delivering the mass participation events. The TAC People’s Ride proudly celebrates its tenth edition in 2026, continuing to offer riders of all abilities the chance to experience the event in a safe and enjoyable environment.
A special thank you also goes to GeelongPort for their ongoing support of the GeelongPort Family Ride. This event has gone from strength to strength, with participation growing to almost 1,000 starters in 2026.
Together, these events are creating a lasting legacy for the Greater Geelong region and the Surf Coast. It is fantastic to see young children taking part, representing the future of cycling and potentially future stars of this event and the world stage, alongside thousands of participants who simply love getting out on the bike and sharing that passion with others.
Thank you to all our partners, supporters, volunteers, and participants. We cannot wait to welcome you back for what promises to be a truly special and unforgettable 10th edition in 2026.
See you soon at the start
Warm regards,
Scott