The technically demanding cross‑country course through the gravel pits and the bike skills park has been one of the classics of the ŠKODA Swiss Bike Cup for years. Steep climbs, technical sections and short distances between key features make the course challenging not only for the athletes but also particularly attractive for spectators.

Elite Men: New dynamics without Püntener

In the Elite Men’s category, the absence of Fabio Püntener (SCOTT‑SRAM MTB Racing) creates an open situation. The winner of the previous round in Huttwil will not be on the start line in Gränichen. This gives his competitors the opportunity to make decisive moves at the season finale.

Among the riders to watch in Gränichen are Luca Schätti and Marcel Guerrini (BIXS Race Team). Schätti recently demonstrated his strong form with third place in Huttwil, while Guerrini has made an impression this season, including winning bronze at the Swiss Championships.Joris Ryf (Specialized Factory Racing) is likely to be particularly motivated. The Gränichen local knows the course inside out and can count on strong support at his home race. At the end of August, he won the silver medal in E‑mountain bike cross‑country at the World Championships in Val di Sole. Now he aims to deliver another standout performance in front of his home crowd.

Elite Women: Nicole Koller backed by a strong season

In the Elite Women’s category, Nicole Koller is one of the big names of the weekend. The 29‑year‑old has enjoyed an exceptionally successful few weeks: in July, she claimed her first Swiss cross‑country title in Leysin, followed by a bronze medal at the World Championships in Val di Sole at the end of August. At Bike Village Huttwil last weekend, she also finished second.With this form, Koller arrives at the season finale as one of Switzerland’s strongest riders and is a key contender both for the day’s victory and in the overall standings.

World Champion Anja Grossmann in front of her home crowd

Anja Grossmann (Trinity Racing) will also attract special attention in Gränichen. The 17‑year‑old from Rickenbach, who rides for RC Gränichen, was crowned junior world champion in cross‑country at the end of August in Val di Sole. With a commanding 48‑second lead, she secured the title and added another major highlight to her season after winning both the European and Swiss championships.Just a few weeks later, Grossmann can now present the rainbow jersey in front of her home crowd. She confirmed her strong form with another victory last weekend in Huttwil.

Around 600 participants and a major season finale

A total of around 600 athletes are expected in Gränichen over the weekend. While Saturday is dedicated to the UCI races, Sunday belongs to the mountain bike youth categories. From the youngest riders in U9 and U11 to the U17 athletes, numerous races are still on the programme. Even the youngest will have their moment at the popular Pfüderi Kids Race at 11:45.To conclude the season, the winners of the overall standings in all categories will be crowned in Gränichen.