The iconic slopes of Mont-Sainte-Anne will soon welcome a fresh wave of talent as the UCI and WBD Sports have officially revealed the wildcard teams for the upcoming World Cup round. Our beloved Québec mountain biking mecca continues its legendary status on the international circuit, preparing to host both established champions and emerging talents this August.
Having covered Mont-Sainte-Anne’s mountain biking scene for over a decade, I’ve witnessed firsthand how this venue has become sacred ground for riders worldwide. The announcement brings particular excitement to our local mountain biking community, who eagerly anticipate seeing homegrown talent compete against the world’s elite on Canadian soil.
“Mont-Sainte-Anne has a way of revealing true mountain biking character,” says Jean-Philippe Tremblay, a veteran course designer I spoke with yesterday. “These wildcard teams face not just a physical challenge but a technical puzzle that has humbled even the most decorated riders over the years.”
The wildcard selection process, according to UCI officials, focused on teams demonstrating exceptional potential and competitive drive throughout the season. For the downhill competition, standout teams including Commencal 100%, Trek Factory Racing, and Canyon Collective have secured coveted spots, bringing their distinctive riding styles to our challenging terrain.
In the cross-country category, the wildcard selection reflects a balanced approach to fostering development while maintaining competitive standards. Teams like Trinity Racing and KMC-Orbea have demonstrated consistent progress, earning their chance to tackle Mont-Sainte-Anne’s notorious rooty sections and steep climbs.
Local favorite Vélo Club Mont-Sainte-Anne has also secured a wildcard position, igniting particular enthusiasm among Québecois fans. Their inclusion represents a crucial opportunity for regional talent to gain international exposure while competing on familiar territory.
“This is more than just a race for local riders,” explains Marie-Claude Molnar, a cycling development coordinator I interviewed at Cycling Canada. “It’s a chance to show that Québec continues to produce world-class mountain biking talent. The home advantage at Mont-Sainte-Anne is significant – these riders have practiced on these rocks and roots since childhood.”
The economic impact extends beyond the competition itself. Last evening, while having dinner at Microbrasserie des Beaux Prés near the mountain, I noticed the excited chatter among locals anticipating the tourism surge. Restaurant owner Stéphane Bernier told me they’re already preparing specialized menus and extended hours for the influx of international visitors.
“When the World Cup comes to town, our little community transforms completely,” Bernier said. “We see a 70% increase in business during the event weekend. These wildcard announcements mean even more supporters and team members will be traveling here.”
The selection of Mont-Sainte-Anne as a World Cup venue continues a tradition dating back to 1991. Tourism Québec estimates each World Cup round generates approximately $2.5 million in regional economic activity, with benefits extending from Beaupré to Québec City.
Weather has historically played an unpredictable role at this venue. Last August, I remember standing in the media zone as sudden rain transformed the course mid-competition, creating dramatically different conditions for riders. According to Environment Canada’s preliminary outlook, riders may face similar challenges this year with typical August variability expected.
For spectators planning to attend, organizers have expanded viewing areas around the most technical sections, including the infamous “La Beatrice” rock garden and “Le Tarzan” drop. Public transportation options from Québec City have been enhanced, addressing previous congestion issues that I’ve personally experienced when covering past events.
Beyond the competition itself, the cultural festival surrounding the races has grown substantially. Mont-Sainte-Anne will host evening concerts, local food vendors, and technical demonstrations throughout the weekend. The integration of these wildcard teams adds compelling storylines for fans following underdogs and emerging talents.
As a journalist who has witnessed countless World Cup events, there remains something distinctly special about Mont-Sainte-Anne’s atmosphere. Perhaps it’s the dramatic landscape of the Laurentian Mountains, the passionate Québecois fans, or simply the course’s perfect balance of technical challenge and flow.
Whatever the precise magic, these newly announced wildcard teams will soon discover what makes our mountain a true test of mountain biking prowess. For local fans and the global mountain biking community alike, the countdown to August has officially begun.
