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Gravel Burn introduces 'new dimension' of teams classification at October stage race while schedules revealed for BWR and Grasshopper series - Gravel Bits

The Nedbank Gravel Burn stage race in South Africa will debut a teams classification for its October 25–31 edition, marking the first such recognition in a gravel stage race. Teams of three to four riders—including both trade squads and independent alliances—will compete for points based on their top three riders’ daily standings, aiming to reward collective effort and level the playing field amid the rise of larger ‘superteams.’ The event, spanning 750 kilometers and 8,500 meters of elevation, will feature a $150,000 prize purse split equally between men’s and women’s categories, with daily payouts for the top three finishers and overall top ten.

Notable entrants include defending women’s champion Axelle Dubau-Prevot, men’s champion Matt Beers, and debutants like two-time Marathon MTB world champion Henrique Avancini and former Cape Epic winner Jakob Fuglsang. Teams such as Canyon x DT Swiss ATR, led by former US gravel champion Bradyn Lange and women’s rider Carolin Schiff, and Scott-SRAM, with riders like Filippo Colombo and Alexis Skarda, will also compete in the mixed-gender divisions.

The race organizers emphasized the inclusion of independent riders to preserve the grassroots spirit of gravel racing, while also acknowledging the growing influence of structured teams.

Separately, the Belgian Waffle Ride series has confirmed five events for 2025, including a new addition in Colorado. Registration opened on October 13 for four US-based races, expanding the series’ reach beyond its traditional European roots.

The announcement follows the inaugural Gravel Burn’s success in blending elite competition with the race’s signature solo and team dynamics, setting a precedent for future gravel stage races.

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