UCI World Cup Round - Pal Arinsal, Andorra - Hot and Loose Action!
Last weekend, the UCI Mountain Bike World Cup arrived in Pal Arinsal, Andorra, hosting another spectacular round of both Cross-country (XCC/XCO) and Downhill (DHI). Although the venue is one of the most familiar on the calendar for the riders, the exceptionally high temperatures and dry conditions transformed the race completely. Dusty trails, loose terrain and extremely low grip made every run a challenge, with even the smallest mistake often deciding the outcome of qualifying sessions and finals.
Once again, it was a very successful weekend for TRP-supported teams, with XCO podiums and another strong demonstration of our performance teams and products at the highest level.
Origine Racing Division
Cross-country (XCC & XCO)
The Origine Racing Division continued its impressive momentum, with both Martina Berta and Mathis Azzaro securing another podium finish in XCO Elite, each claiming 2nd place after battling for victory throughout the race.
Martina Berta
Cross-country (XCC & XCO)
Martina once again demonstrated remarkable consistency, remaining with the lead group from start to finish and delivering another outstanding performance after her victory in La Thuile put her in 3rd place overall.
Her current form confirms her as one of the strongest contenders for the upcoming World Championships.
Mathis Azzaro
Cross-country (XCC & XCO)
Mathis also enjoyed an excellent weekend. After suffering an unfortunate crash during the XCC race while fighting alongside fellow French rider Luca Martin, which forced him to retire and finish 39th.
He bounced back brilliantly in Sunday's XCO race. He spent the entire race battling for the win with Adrien Boichis, eventually finishing in 2nd place after one of the most exciting races of the weekend.
Cross-country (XCC & XCO)
Other notable Cross-country performances included:
- Rens Teunissen (KMC Nukeproof) – Top 10 finish in XCO U23, maintaining his position among the category's leading riders.
- Bloem Kalis (KMC Nukeproof) – 5th place in XCC U23 and 6th place in XCO U23, continuing her excellent start with the team.
- Kelsey Urban (KMC Nukeproof) – 19th in XCC and 28th in XCO Elite Women.
- Ronja Eibl ( Origine Racing Division ) – 24th in XCO Elite Women.
- Tom Schellekens (KMC Nukeproof)– 46th in XCO Elite Men.
- Knut Rhome ( Origine Racing Division) - 59th in XCO Elite Men
Overall, Cross-country once again delivered strong sporting results and excellent brand exposure for TRP throughout the weekend.
Downhill (DHI)
The standout team of the weekend was once again Frameworks TRP Racing, who achieved one of their strongest collective performances of the season.
All four Frameworks riders qualified for the World Cup Finals, allowing the team to finish as the third-best team overall during the event.
Asa Vermette
4th place, missing the podium by only 0.041 seconds after another incredibly fast run. He now continues to establish himself as one of the most consistent Elite riders on the circuit this season jumping into the 3º position on the overall standings.
Anna Newkirk
4th place, only 1.4 seconds away from the podium after advancing through Q2 qualification.
Aaron Gwin
17th place with a solid race run, showing great speed throughout the weekend
Michael Delesalle
26th place after a small crash in Split 3 prevented an even stronger result. For Mikey, this was a special race, as it marked the first time he qualified directly into the finals from Q1.
Other Downhill Teams
Dragon Speed
The Junior Women category also produced another strong performance for Dragon Speed, with Zoé Fayolle securing an excellent 8th place in the World Cup Final, continuing her positive progression following her return from injury.
After returning from his shoulder injury, Thibaut Daprela attempted to make his comeback in Andorra. However, following the first day of practice he decided not to race, feeling he was not yet physically ready to compete at World Cup level.
UNNO Factory Racing
Both Veronika Widmann and Simon Chapelet came very close to qualifying for the finals. Although they narrowly missed out this weekend, both riders continue to show encouraging speed and progression throughout the season.
RACE PROVEN PRODUCTS
Every podium, every qualifying run, and every split-second finish is backed by equipment designed to perform under the toughest conditions. Discover the same TRP products trusted by our World Cup teams and athletes below.
