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UCI cancels Urban Cycling World Championships amid missile strikes on host Saudi Arabia

The Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) has withdrawn its support for the 2026 Urban Cycling World Championships, scheduled to take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, following escalating security concerns. The decision comes after a series of missile strikes targeting King Khalid International Airport in the city over the past week, linked to the Houthi militia in Yemen.

The attacks, which have killed at least 18 people and injured hundreds, have raised significant safety risks for athletes and staff, prompting several national cycling federations—including Australia’s—to pull out of the event. The championships, featuring BMX Freestyle and Trials competitions, were set to run from November 3 to 7 and would have served as a key qualification pathway for the 2028 Olympic Games in BMX Freestyle.

The UCI and Saudi Cycling Federation jointly announced the cancellation, citing the deteriorating regional security situation as the primary factor. While the Saudi Cycling Federation reaffirmed its commitment to growing cycling in the country, the UCI has yet to clarify whether the championships will be rescheduled or permanently canceled.

The event was originally planned as part of a two-year hosting agreement, with Riyadh previously hosting the championships in 2025.

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