Billy Bolt secures runner-up result at 2026 Alestrem Hard Enduro

Billy Bolt delivered a strong performance at the opening round of the 2026 FIM Hard Enduro World Championship, securing second place overall at the Alestrem Hard Enduro in France. Despite challenging weather conditions that led to the race being shortened, Bolt’s consistent pace throughout the weekend allowed him to take the lead in the championship standings by a single point. His results included a close second place in Friday’s Xtrem Test and a dominant victory in Saturday’s Minerva Prologue, setting him up well for the main event. The main race proved to be a demanding contest, with Bolt initially leading before struggling to maintain his pace in the early stages. Heavy rain midway through the event transformed the course into a slippery and technical challenge, which suited Bolt’s riding style. He adapted quickly, pushing hard to regain lost ground and ultimately finishing just 48 seconds behind winner Manuel Lettenbichler. The shortened race denied Bolt a chance to mount a final charge for victory, but his resilience under difficult conditions was evident. Bolt reflected on the race as chaotic and tough to manage, noting that the rain changed the dynamics significantly and played to his strengths. He expressed satisfaction with leaving France as championship leader, highlighting the positive atmosphere created by the enthusiastic French fans. Looking ahead, Bolt remains focused on building momentum for the next round of the series, which will take place at Extreme Lagares in Portugal in early May. The provisional results from Alestrem place Manuel Lettenbichler first, followed closely by Bolt, with Teodor Kabakchiev completing the podium. In the championship standings, Bolt leads on 29 points, just ahead of Lettenbichler’s 28, setting up a closely contested season. The competitive start suggests an exciting battle ahead as the series progresses through its nine rounds.