It was a day that will long be remembered, described by the organizers as historic and unforgettable. The second consecutive year of testing culminated in a powerful Cyclocross World Cup showcase, with the entire Foietes and El Moralet park circuit turning into a lively celebration. More than 16,000 people attended across the weekend, turning the event into a festive focal point for locals and visitors alike. [Citation: Organizers of CX Benidorm-Costa Blanca]
There was also a strong sporting performance to match the spectacle. Wout van Aert took the victory, a significant moment as Mathieu van der Poel experienced his first defeat of the season after a streak of wins in previous events. The drama surrounding van der Poel’s comeback and the final lap’s tension added to the excitement. Felipe Orts moved up to eighth place, then rose to ninth compared with last year. Benidorm proved itself as a global cyclocross festival—an event where the sport and the city intersect in a remarkable way. [Citation: Race coverage and rankings]
Benidorm’s star moment with Van Aert
BİLGİ.ES
“Absolutely incredible chaos… The goal was met, and it was an honor to wear the La Vila Joiosa-Néteo colors on the chest. The team and supporters left everyone astonished by CX Benidorm, and participation felt universal. Truly unbelievable,” Orts shared on social media after the race. [Citation: Orts post-race message]
The grandstand was packed with fans. Spectators from various European nations traveled to the Costa Blanca tourist hub, especially from the Netherlands and Belgium, where cyclocross has evolved into a near-religious celebration. The World Cup’s influence on the city extended beyond sport, generating a meaningful economic impact that resonated through local businesses and tourism operators. [Citation: Economic impact report]
The two editions held in consecutive years stood as clear proof of the event’s appeal. Pascual Momparler, head of the organizing company, noted that van Aert’s victory was important, yet the true winner was the crowd—the 16,000 attendees who created the energy that defined CX Benidorm. The event drew expert voices and enthusiasts alike, turning the brews and bike chats into a shared experience. [Citation: Organizer remarks]
Benidorm embraces the world’s best cyclocross
JA Galvan
All these positive outcomes lay the groundwork for sustaining the project and positioning Benidorm as a fixed stop on the World Cup calendar. The organizing group has already engaged with the International Cycling Union (UCI) to lay the groundwork for next year’s edition, ensuring the spectacle can be repeated and that the Valencian Community’s premier tourist city remains a showcase for the discipline. Local authorities at both the city hall and the Alicante Provincial Council reaffirm their willingness to keep collaborating, highlighting the role of sports tourism in extending activity beyond peak summer months. [Citation: Future planning statements]