Pyeongchang Selected as Host City, Promising Economic Boost and Tourism Growth
Pyeongchang, Gangwon Province, is set to make history as the first Asian host of the prestigious ‘WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series’ in 2026. The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) announced on August 1, that Pyeongchang has been selected as the host city for this landmark event at Mona Yongpyong, a venue renowned for hosting the 2018 Winter Olympics. This decision marks a significant expansion of mountain biking into Asia, promising to introduce the sport to new audiences and elevate its international attention.
On August 19, a media day was held at Olympic Parktel in Songpa-gu, Seoul, where key figures such as Chris Ball, Vice President of Warner Bros. Discovery Sports; Baek Woon-kwang, CEO of Global Korea; and Park In-jun, CEO of Mona Yongpyong gathered to discuss the upcoming series. The event will be held annually from 2026 through 2028 around Balwangsan Mountain and Mona Yongpyong Resort in Pyeongchang County. It will feature UCI-sanctioned events including Downhill (DHI), Cross-Country Olympic (XCO), and Cross-Country Short Track (XCC), with a total prize of 300 million won.
The series is expected to draw top-tier athletes from around the globe. Notable competitors such as Christopher Blevins and Sammi Maxwell are anticipated in the Cross-Country Olympic category, while Jackson Goldstone and Valentina Höll will showcase their skills in the Downhill category. This high-caliber lineup underscores the event’s significance on the international stage.
Warner Bros. Discovery Sports is spearheading the organization of this event in collaboration with UCI, alongside co-organizers Global Korea and Korea Mountain Bike Federation. Official sponsors include Korea Tourism Organization, Korea Cycling Federation, and Mona Yongpyong Co., Ltd. Chris Ball emphasized this milestone’s importance: “For the first time ever, we are showcasing Downhill (DHI), Cross-Country Olympic (XCO), and Cross-Country Short Track (XCC) events in Asia. Held at a venue proven by the Winter Olympics, this will be an opportunity to introduce these disciplines to new fans.”
The organizing committee has committed to establishing a sustainable sports event model through environmentally friendly operations and community engagement programs. This approach aligns with broader trends in sports management that prioritize ecological responsibility and local involvement.
Park In-jun expressed his enthusiasm about hosting such a significant event: “It is a great honor to host the Mountain Bike World Cup for the first time in Asia at a location that hosted the Winter Olympics. Mona Yongpyong, in harmony with nature, will become a mecca for MTB through this opportunity, significantly contributing to regional development and attracting tourists.”
Pyeongchang’s selection as host city not only highlights its existing infrastructure but also its potential to become a central hub for mountain biking in Asia. The region’s sporting legacy from hosting large-scale events like the Winter Olympics positions it well for this new venture.
As preparations continue for this groundbreaking series, stakeholders anticipate substantial economic benefits from increased tourism and international attention. The ‘WHOOP UCI Mountain Bike World Series’ promises not only thrilling competition but also an opportunity for Pyeongchang to shine on the world stage once again.