Winner Epic Israel 2026 Mountain Bike Race Returns to Western Galilee
The Winner Epic Israel 2026 mountain bike race returns to the Western Galilee on October 14-17, 2026, following extensive trail restoration by KKL-JNF after three years of war-induced closures.
Three years after fighting halted sports and tourism activities in northern Israel and closed numerous cycling routes, the Winner Epic Israel 2026 mountain bike race is returning to the Western Galilee. The race, held for the 11th year in memory of the late Giora Tsachor, will take place from October 14 to 17, 2026, in the Mateh Asher Regional Council and the city of Nahariya, in cooperation with KKL-JNF, the Toto, and the Specialized bicycle brand.
The return to the north is made possible following extensive rehabilitation and upgrade works by KKL-JNF, during which approximately 100 kilometers of single-track trails were renewed. These include the routes in Hanita, Kabri, Yehiam, and Matsuba, which had been closed throughout the war.
Hundreds of riders are expected to arrive in the region, bringing tourism and economic activity to help restore normalcy to the local community. Alongside the competitive riders, wounded IDF veterans from the "Brothers for Life" organization will also participate, highlighting the connection between sports, rehabilitation, and coping.
The multi-day competition will span four days and will cover approximately 300 kilometers of off-road riding with a cumulative elevation gain of about 3,000 meters across the Galilean landscape. In addition to the full race, the event will feature single-day categories, a juniors category, and a relay race.
Gal Tsachor, founder and producer of the race, stated:
"The return to the north is much more than choosing a new route—it is a statement that the north is coming back."
KKL-JNF Chairman Eyal Ostrinsky added that the return of riders to the rehabilitated trails is a significant symbol of the recovery and growth process of the north. Moshe Davidovich, head of the Mateh Asher Regional Council, and Ronen Marley, mayor of Nahariya, welcomed the hosting of the race, emphasizing its contribution to strengthening sports, tourism, and the local economy.
