The Belgian Waffle Ride: an extraordinary adventure returns to the United States
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The year 2026 marks the great return of the famous Belgian Waffle Ride (BWR), a series of races on mixed terrain which promises to thrill cycling enthusiasts. Four stages not to be missed – forming the prestigious Quad-Tripel Crown of Gravel – will delight gravel enthusiasts in breathtaking landscapes. But what makes these races so unique?
Arizona season kicks off
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See you on February 28 for the kick-off in Arizona, where the pleasant temperatures of the desert attract a strong peloton. Labeled as‘Hell of the Northern Desert’this stage opens the 2026 season with tough challenges for the favorites. To date, Keegan Swenson et Sofia Gomez Villafañe had dominated this stage, but their participation this year remains uncertain.
Decisive steps
The route book then provides essential passages through California, Utah, and Montana. There Californiawith its Californian event expected on May 3, is a heavyweight in this competition. This demanding course and its famous coastal climbers serve as a justice of the peace, especially since it serves as the final tiebreaker in the Quad-Tripel Crown.
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Be careful, however, of overlaps on the calendar: the dates coincide with those of the event Tape in Spain, adding a strategic dimension to the preparation.
New routes and technical challenges
Michael Marckx, creator and owner of the BWR, has promised revisited routes for each stage. In California, the strategy is to remove sections that are too narrow and have caught many riders off guard. The route will combine paved roads and intractable gravel with steep climbs. Take part in the Gran Roadie-Oh race, a famous cycling trip, for all categories ready to take on the challenge the day before the event.
Registrations and advantageous rates
Cyclists have until December 1, 2025 to get the best deals on Quad-Tripel Crown entry fees, which start at 540 € for four races at the price of three. After this date, the price will increase to 610 € until February 1, 2026, then 665 €. Beginner rates for individual events can be particularly attractive with 46 € for juniors and 180 € for longer formats such as “waffle” and “wafer” distances.
The 2026 Shield promises to be exciting with seven events spread across three North American countries. The last race this year will take place in Mexico, in Santiago de Querétaro, this Sunday, November 23. Get ready for an unforgettable cycling experience!
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Passionate about cycling and a fervent defender of bicycle safety, I put my experience at the service of cyclists by sharing my analyses, my practical advice and my purchasing guides. My goal? Helping every cyclist, from beginner to advanced, to pedal safer and smarter!
– Gilles
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