The 'MTB World Series' in Pyeongchang left a lasting impression until the end... A 'mud ceremony' held despite torrential rain

*This content was translated by AI.

The world's premier mountain bike (MTB) stage, held for the first time in Asia in Pyeongchang, Gangwon Province, concluded after three days of intense competition.

On the final day of the 2026 WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series, the Olympic cross-country (XCO) event was held on the 3rd.

In the men's elite category, Dario Lillo of Switzerland delivered an overwhelming performance. Lillo, who finished third in the short track (XCC) on the first day, seized the lead from the start of the day's race and secured the victory with stable management, never relinquishing his position.

In the women's elite category, Sinna Fray of Switzerland claimed the top spot. Fray won both the short track (XCC) and the XCO, achieving the double crown at this tournament. Even while covered in mud, Fray maintained her focus to cross the finish line, and immediately after finishing, she lifted her bicycle and roared.

The XCO race was held on the Monayongyeong 3.5km mountain course, with women (U23 and elite) completing five laps and men (U23 and elite) completing six laps. Amidst the ever-changing road conditions, riders were comprehensively tested on their judgment, physical stamina, and crisis response capabilities.

Adding to this, rain that had continued since the previous day covered the entire course in mud. The event unfolded as an 'extreme race' that simultaneously tested the riders' skills, physical strength, and mental fortitude.

After fierce competition, Swiss male and female riders, including Lillo and Fray, smiled. The two celebrated their joy with a 'mud ceremony.'

Meanwhile, with the XCO race as the finale, the Pyeongchang tournament concluded its three-day schedule. At this World Series, many riders delivered moving and thrilling performances that overcame human limits across various disciplines including XCO, XCC, and downhill (DHI), enhancing the tournament's completeness.

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*This content was translated by AI.