L’Étape România 2026 attracts over 2,000 cyclists from 22 countries

L’Étape România 2026 brought together more than 2,000 cyclists from 22 countries, making it the largest road cycling event in Romania and Eastern Europe. The event, held on August 30, 2026, showcased participants from 230 cities and towns, highlighting a vibrant community of cyclists from diverse backgrounds.

Among the competitors were cyclists from countries including Greece, Serbia, the United Kingdom, South Africa, Brazil, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, Germany, Italy, Belgium, Cyprus, Poland, Switzerland, Austria, and Bulgaria. The event featured two main routes, The Ride adjusted to 37 km and The Race at 75 km, accommodating a wide range of participants.

The Ride was particularly popular, with approximately 1,200 cyclists starting the 37 km journey. The Race saw over 450 competitors, while the City Adventure, a shorter 14 km route, attracted more than 550 participants, including over 250 children and adolescents under 18. Additionally, more than 80 individuals with disabilities participated for free, underscoring the event's inclusive spirit.

The organization of L’Étape România was a massive undertaking, with over 300 technicians and specialists, alongside more than 300 volunteers, contributing to its success. Security was a priority, ensured by over 400 police and gendarmes, and more than 100 security and intervention vehicles were deployed, alongside over 5,000 safety barriers.

The competition also featured impressive performances, with Kostadin Kostadinov and Kateryna Kalashlinska winning the yellow jersey in The Race, while Nikolay Yovchev Kolev and Cristina Maria Sprînceană took home the yellow jersey in The Ride. Notably, Cristina Maria Sprînceană excelled, winning five medals throughout the event.

The event culminated in recognition for amateur cyclists, as the top three finishers in The Race qualified for the L’Étape Championship, with participants like Marian Frunzeanu, Roberto – Adrian Micșa, and Kostadin Kostadinov representing the men, and Cecilia Dalvaru, Andreea Gabriela Tariuc, and Kateryna Kalashlinska for the women.

The day's festivities included an exhibition dedicated to the Tour de France universe in Piața Constituției, further enriching the experience for attendees. Organizer Răzvan Jugănaru expressed gratitude to participants, supporters, and volunteers, declaring the event a success. Plans for the next edition of L’Étape România are already underway, set to take place in 2027.