Mona Yongpyong to Host 2026 UCI MTB World Series, Marking First-Ever Event in Asia
Global Mountain Bike Competition to Be Held at Balwangsan, Gangwon for Three Consecutive Years Resort Plans to Pioneer 'MTB Tourism' and Expand Year-Round Sports Offerings in South Korea
Mona Yongpyong announced on August 1st that it will host the 'UCI MTB World Series,' organized by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), marking the first time in history that the mountain bike world cup competition will take place in Asia.
The renowned event is scheduled for May 1 to 3, 2026, in the Balwangsan area of Pyeongchang, Gangwon Province, with plans to hold the series annually through 2028.
The UCI MTB World Series is recognized as the premier stage for the world’s top mountain bike riders. Until now, this global tour has only been hosted in Europe, North America, and South America. The upcoming competition at Balwangsan represents the inaugural Asian edition of the event.
Warner Bros. Discovery will be responsible for broadcasting and producing the series, which will be aired in over 170 countries worldwide.
Mona Yongpyong succeeded in securing the event thanks to the 1,458-meter-high Balwangsan Mountain, international-standard trails that meet UCI’s requirements, a comprehensive safety infrastructure, and an integrated resort equipped with lodging, dining, and leisure facilities. The company’s proven track record from the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics contributed to its high evaluation as a world-class sports event venue.
A representative from Mona Yongpyong stated, “Hosting the UCI MTB World Series in Asia for the first time is of significant international importance. We hope this opportunity will establish Korea at the center of the global mountain biking scene.”
By bringing the World Series to South Korea, Mona Yongpyong aims to introduce 'MTB Tourism' as a new sports tourism model. The resort offers skiing and various slopes, as well as level-specific programs in winter, and a wide range of outdoor sports, including mountain biking, in summer. This approach is designed to deliver unique experiences for all visitors throughout the year.
Mona Yongpyong plans to reduce seasonal revenue fluctuations and reinforce its status as an all-season activity resort by expanding its diverse range of programs, aiming for sustainable and balanced growth.
Note “This article was translated from the original Korean version using AI assistance, and subsequently edited by a native-speaking journalist.”
Photo=Mona Yongpyong