UCI Gravel World Series: Romain Bardet and Sophie Wright stretch the gaps to win Monaco Gravel Race

Romain Bardet and Sophie Wright emerged victorious at the Monaco Gravel Race, a key event in the UCI Gravel World Series held on demanding alpine terrain. Bardet, riding for Factor Racing, dominated the men’s elite race with a commanding lead of over three minutes, marking his second series win of the season following his earlier success in Castellon, Spain. Meanwhile, Sophie Wright of Ribble Outliers broke the winning streak of Australian Nicole Frain, finishing nearly eight minutes ahead in the women’s elite category. The race covered 116 kilometres with a challenging 2,500 metres of elevation gain, starting in the medieval village of Peille and featuring iconic climbs such as the Col de Braus, Col du Castillon, and Col des Banquettes. The course’s technical and varied nature tested riders with loose, rocky sections and significant climbs, offering spectacular views of the Mediterranean Sea and snow-capped peaks. Both Bardet and Wright praised the route’s difficulty, with Wright describing it as “super tough” and perfectly suited to her strengths. Nicole Frain, who had won three consecutive UCI Gravel World Series races in the preceding month, was unable to extend her streak despite an early breakaway. Jade Wiel, a professional road cyclist with FDJ United-SUEZ, secured third place in the women’s race, finishing nearly 20 minutes behind Wright. In the men’s race, Paul Voß and Sascha Weber completed the podium, finishing closely behind Bardet. The Monaco Gravel Race is part of the expanding UCI Gravel World Series calendar, which now includes 47 races worldwide. Each event offers riders the chance to qualify for the UCI Gravel World Championships, scheduled for October in Nannup, Western Australia. The continued growth of the series highlights the rising profile of gravel racing within the cycling community and its increasing appeal to both professional and amateur riders.