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Article published 30/04/2024

The WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series turns its attention to Scotland. The world’s very best downhill mountain bike riders will converge on Fort William for the opening round of the UCI Mountain Bike Downhill World Cup from 3 to 5 May 2024.

The event will draw thousands to the UK’s outdoor capital for the ultimate weekend of downhill mountain bike racing. It offers fans a chance to watch mountain biking’s biggest stars take on the iconic Nevis Range track, which is revered as one of the longest and toughest courses in the world.

The UCI Mountain Bike World Series Fort William is the official season opener for the UCI Downhill World Cup. It is proudly supported by EventScotland, Highlands & Islands Enterprise, and the Highland Council.

A historic event

The 2024 edition promises to be one of the biggest in the sport’s history. Seven-time Fort William winner Greg Minnaar (Norco Factory Racing) will join Scottish hero Reece Wilson (Trek Factory Racing) and returning champion Charlie Hatton (Continental Atherton MTB Race Team) in the men’s elite field.

World champion Valentina Höll (YT Mob) and British star rider Tahnée Seagrave (FMD Racing) feature in the women’s elite field.

Top international riders and homegrown talent are all vying to position themselves on the podium at one of the most legendary venues in the sport.

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What else can spectators enjoy?

Away from the track, the expo village showcases leading cycling brands. Mountain bike enthusiasts will have the opportunity to test the latest bike technology at the Shimano Test Track and rub shoulders with world class riders and teams moving through the elite athlete corridor before racing begins.

New for this year, fans can watch from the Red Bull fan zone, or enjoy the racing from a new grandstand uniquely positioned before the finish. This will offer unmatched views of the final airborne descent towards the line.

The Fort William crowd can expect to see the strongest calibre of riders take on the 2024 edition. None more so than serial winner Greg Minnaar.

As the luminaries of mountain biking descend into Fort William for the biggest UK race of the year, Warner Bros Discovery Sport will host an exclusive private premiere of a new mountain bike documentary Greg Minnaar: Not Done Yet.

This will be shown at the Highland Cinema on Tuesday 30 April, ahead of airing on Eurosport 2 at 9pm on Wednesday 1 May.

Scotland is the perfect stage for events and EventScotland is proud to be continuing its support of the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup in Fort William.

Following the success of the Mountain Bike Downhill at the 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships, this year’s UCI World Cup will provide the ideal opportunity once again come together and share a memorable experience as the world’s best riders battle it out for victory on the iconic Nevis Range course.

Paul Bush OBE, Director of Events

How can I get to Fort William?

It's never been easier to get trackside. Exclusive ride and travel packages available in partnership with Citylink for direct access to the venue from either Glasgow or Edinburgh. There are also discounts on all tickets available to Young Scot members.

Spectator parking is only available at dedicated park and ride sites, with a free shuttle service in full operation across the weekend.

The WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series Fort William is set to inspire future generations of Scottish downhill mountain bike talent. There is a schools day event on Friday 3 May, and Scottish Cycling’s Mini Downhill Final on Saturday 4 May, ahead of the main event.

Bus on a rural road

Credit: Citylink

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Browse the full list of events supported through EventScotland funding programmes.