The sun-soaked Australian roads are calling, and the 2026 road racing season is about to begin! But this year, it's not just about the iconic landscapes and the battle against the elements. It's a season of change, with new rules and an expanded presence in the land down under. Get ready for a thrilling start to the WorldTour!
While Europe is the heart of the WorldTour, Australia's unique time zone and climate offer a captivating contrast, marking the beginning of the season in the southern hemisphere. In 2026, the significance of the Australian block as the season opener is amplified by a new regulation: each WorldTeam can only skip one top-tier event per season. This means more teams than ever will descend upon Australia, ready to tackle the Tour Down Under and the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race for both men and women, alongside other ProSeries races.
The Australian Road National Championships kick things off:
- Time Trials: January 7th and 8th - A 9.8km route in Bold Park with a flat start and a hairpin turn. Brodie Chapman and Luke Plapp will defend their titles, but face stiff competition.
- Criteriums: January 9th - Fast finishers will battle it out on a 1.2km course in Northbridge.
- Road Races: January 10th and 11th - The elite men's and women's races will be intense, with Jayco-AlUla's Luke Durbridge and Lucinda Stewart defending their titles on a challenging 13.6km circuit.
And here's where it gets controversial... The Tour Down Under, a traditional WorldTour opener, is set to showcase new equipment and kits in the scorching summer sun. This year, there's a twist. For the first time, a full contingent of Women's WorldTour teams is expected, including SD Worx-Protime, who have been notably absent in previous years. The women's race will be a three-stage, 395km battle, while the men's race begins with a sharp prologue, ensuring an early GC fight. Keep an eye on defending champions Jhonatan Narváez and Ally Wollaston, who will face strong competition.
The Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race is next, and it's a big beneficiary of the new rules. With WorldTour teams now required to attend, both the women's and men's fields will be deeper than ever. The Surf Coast Classic will be a crucial warm-up, and the main event will be a grueling one-day race with a Classics-style course. The unpredictable nature of this race keeps everyone on their toes, as past winners rarely repeat their success.
As the season unfolds, Cyclingnews will be there, bringing you every twist and turn. With a subscription, you'll have front-row access to the action, from breaking news to exclusive interviews. And don't forget, our very own Simone, with her rich experience in journalism and a passion for cycling, will be guiding you through the Australian season.
So, are you ready for the Australian adventure? Who do you think will shine in the sun-drenched roads? Let us know in the comments, and stay tuned for more cycling excitement!
