THE Mercedes-Benz UCI Mountain Bike World Cup will make its return to Fort William this year, taking place for the first time since 2019.
After two years of cancellations due to the pandemic, the competition will once again take place on Anoach Mor at the Nevis Range ski centre.
Some 250 of the world’s best riders will compete, including Reece Wilson – 2020 Downhill World Champion – and Matt Walker – 2020 Overall World Cup Champion – will compete for the Downhill World Cup and 4x Pro Tour titles.
This will be the 19th time the legendary Fort William event takes place, with more than 21,000 expected to join the action over the weekend of May 21-22.
The return of the event is expected to provide a £4 million benefit to the Scottish economy, as mountain bike fans return to Fort William. Since its launch in 2002, the award-winning event has contributed over £43m to the Scottish economy as a whole.
The return of the Fort William UCI Mountain Bike World Cup also has a new main partner for 2022. Online bike retailer Freewheel.co.uk is sponsoring the event, as well as being part of the Madison Saracen Team, one of the leading UCI Elite Teams.
Matt Walker, 2020 Overall World Cup Champion, said: “Fort William is a real highlight in the calendar, and I can’t wait to get back up there this year.
“The fans are always incredible and after two years away, it’ll be great to compete in front of them again and feed off the energy and noise they provide.”
Paul Bush OBE, VisitScotland’s director of events, said: “Scotland is one of the best places in the world to experience events and after the challenges of the last two years it is great to have the Fort William UCI Mountain Bike World back.
“Events play an important role in our communities, as they allow us all to connect, enjoy and share memorable experiences.”
For more information and event tickets, visit fortwilliamworldcup.co.uk
