UCI Gravel World Series: Nicole Frain keeps winning streak rolling in Wörthersee as Jordan Habets claims victory in photo finish

Nicole Frain extended her remarkable winning streak in the UCI Gravel World Series with a commanding solo victory at the Wörthersee Gravel race in Velden, Austria. The Australian rider, representing Factor Racing, finished the demanding 150km alpine course nearly half a minute ahead of her closest rival, Mieke Kröger of Rose Racing Circle. This triumph marked Frain’s third consecutive win in the series, following her earlier successes in Belgium and Portugal, further cementing her status as a dominant force in the gravel racing scene. The Wörthersee Gravel course posed a significant challenge, featuring two loops around Lake Wörthersee with a total elevation gain of 1,713 metres. Riders faced steep climbs early on and again near the finish, testing their endurance and technical skills. Frain made a decisive move on the second lap, quickly establishing a gap that she maintained to the finish line, showcasing both tactical acumen and physical strength on the tough terrain. The men’s elite race was decided in an exhilarating photo finish, with Dutch rider Jordan Habets of Rose Racing Circle narrowly edging out Denmark’s Gustav Frederik Dahl from Team Give Steel. The pair broke away early in the second lap and collaborated to keep the lead, culminating in a sprint finish separated by mere millimetres. German rider Luis Neff secured third place after winning the sprint from a chasing group, rounding out a competitive podium. As the only Austrian event in the UCI Gravel World Series, the Wörthersee Gravel race plays a crucial role in the qualification process for the 2026 UCI Gravel World Championships. The world championship event is set to take place on a gravel-heavy and ascent-focused course in Nannup, Western Australia, in October. Performances in this series will be closely watched as riders aim to secure their spots and prepare for the prestigious rainbow jersey competition later this year.