The UCI World Championships – Glasgow 2023
3rd August – 13th August 2023

2023 will be a year for cycling to remember and for Scotland to celebrate because, from the 3rd to 13th August, the world’s biggest (ever) cycling event comes to town.

It’s going to be a thrilling, excitement packed ride with something for everyone no matter what stage of your cycling journey you’re on. The UCI are bringing together road, track, mountain biking, BMX, para and indoor cycling Championship disciplines into one mega event.

1. Everyone’s invited

Although some events are ticketed, a large proportion of the event, such as the BMX freestyle flatland and the Mountain bike cross-country marathon, is free. Thanks UCI!

What’s cool about this event is that anyone can participate, regardless of their skill level. So if you’re a beginner or an expert, there’s an event for you! Plus, it’s not just about the pros – there are events for amateurs and different age groups too.

Another awesome thing about the UCI World Championship is that it’s super inclusive of both men and women – with equal prize money for both – and all ages.

All in all, the UCI World Championship is going to be an epic event where everyone can come together and celebrate the amazing sport of cycling!

2. Experience great cycling events in amazing places

It’s a perfect chance to witness the top cyclists in the world pushing themselves to their limits and showcasing their skills against some truly breathtaking Scottish backdrops.

Fresh-air friend? Elite road racers will be testing themselves both mentally and physically in a fastest-finish-first battle along some of Scotland’s mountainous roads and stunning scenery to the streets of city-centre Glasgow. MTB and trail riders will be found navigating the stamina-testing forest, hills and trails of Glentress; about an hour south of historic Edinburgh.

For those not wishing to risk a run in with the rather infamous Scottish midges, check out the events at the Sir Chris Hoy velodrome. Even though seated, this is far from a relaxing option; this 4000-seater arena is going to be adrenaline-packed, exhilarating and very noisy. It’s indoors, it’s a fast track and it’s kept deliberately warm so as to provide perfect conditions for elite level cycling.

3. See the best of the best – at their best

It’s not merely about getting gold either. Every winner will, in addition to their medal, be given that pinnacle of World Champs cycling achievement: a rainbow jersey – now an iconic symbol of excellence, determination, stamina and dedication. More than 200 of these jerseys will be awarded to World Champions from 7 disciplines across 11 days.

What to look out for? The jerseys have a white base with stripes the colours of the Olympic flag across the chest and sleeve. Only winners are allowed to wear the jersey – and only for one year until the next World Champion stands on top of the podium.

cyclist

4. It’s a great way to get inspired

With so many cycling styles and events, the 2023 World Championships are a fantastic opportunity to see and experience the breadth that cycling has to offer. Maybe you’ll get pumped up about downhill racing, feel an affinity with cycle-ball or artistic cycling or re-ignite a passion for whatever form of cycling you’re already enjoying. Perhaps you’ll join (or even start) a local community cycling club, create an online community to keep in touch with cyclists near you – or design your own custom cycling jersey to wear with pride.

5. Share your excitement with others

Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or just starting out, the world championships are a great place to connect with people who are just as passionate about the sport as you are. You never know, you might even find a new cycling buddy or training partner to help you achieve your goals.

The UCI World Championship this year is going to be awesome because it brings together cyclists from all over the world! It’s great to see how inclusive cycling can be, with people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds competing in different events like road racing, track cycling, and mountain biking.

I know, I know; we said it would be 5 reasons but here at Appin we’re too excited about the World Championships to remember what day it is let alone the number of reasons we want to go and so, on that final point, we hope you’re feeling as excited for August as we are.

We want to know all about your thoughts on the UCI World championships? Which events are you going to? What riders are you looking out for? Are you a hardcore repeat world championship-er, or a first timer finding a possible new passion. Let us know and with any luck, we might bump into you as a peloton rushes past!

Where will you be, when the biggest cycling event of all time rolls into Scotland?

We know where we’re going to be.