USCX retains $15,000 prize purse across three events in 2026 and adjusts opener for later start at Rochester Cyclocross to avoid 'heated sufferfest' of early September

The US Cyclocross Series (USCX) will maintain its $15,000 prize purse for elite riders across three events in the 2026 season, despite a reduction from four to three races. The series kicks off on 19-20 September at Rochester Cyclocross in New York, followed by Virginia’s Blue Ridge Go Cross in Roanoke and Charm City Cross in Baltimore. This adjustment reflects a more condensed calendar of UCI cyclocross events in North America, with only five C1 races scheduled over four months, a notable decrease from previous years. USCX Executive Director Scott Page emphasised the decision to keep prize money stable to protect athletes’ earnings amid the calendar changes. The series aims to deliver consecutive weekends of high-calibre racing while enhancing the experience for both competitors and fans. To address concerns about extreme heat affecting early-season races, the organisers have shifted the start times and dates, notably moving Go Cross later in the calendar to avoid the “heated sufferfest” athletes faced in early September in southern venues. The North American cyclocross scene will see fewer events offering UCI points, with notable omissions including the Trek CX Cup in Wisconsin and the Really Rad Festival of Cyclocross in Massachusetts. However, other key races remain, such as Kings CX in Ohio and the Boulder Cup in Colorado, alongside national championships in Canada and the USA. The calendar also features the UCI Pan-American Cyclocross Championships returning to Washington, DC, signalling a continued focus on premier regional competitions. These changes suggest a strategic realignment within North American cyclocross to balance athlete welfare with competitive opportunities. By concentrating prize money and adjusting scheduling, USCX is positioning itself as a leading platform in the sport’s evolving landscape. The 2026 season promises a more streamlined yet still fiercely contested series, with organisers hopeful that cooler conditions will improve racing conditions and athlete performance.