El evento
Overview
General
Škoda Titan Desert Almería is a mountain bike (MTB) endurance race held in a “Challenge” format; therefore, participants who finish out of control or withdraw from a stage—on a single occasion—may start the next stage, but will not score points toward the final overall classification for that stage nor be eligible for any other classification.
The competition will take place from October 1 to 4, 2026, and will consist of four stages. It is governed by the complete set of rules, which you can download below.
The race is open to male and female runners in the U-23 category or older, or who turn 19 in the year of the race, provided they hold a valid annual or one-day national license.
The use of a GPS device is mandatory, and the route for each stage must be tracked.
The race features the following bonuses: the Škoda Challenge, at Alto de Velefique, and daily bonus time at the GC for the top three finishers in each stage.
No external material or technical assistance is permitted during a stage.
Categories
FAQs
What kind of terrain will I encounter on each stage?
The race combines different types of terrain. Most of the tracks are in good condition. There are some sections of soft ground when crossing some dry riverbeds and some sections of trail.
Does the route change every year?
Yeah. Although it maintains the main stages, the route design varies each edition to offer new experiences, improve safety, and adapt to environmental conditions.
Will I know the race route before the race?
Yes, but only when they are 100% validated. They are published two weeks before the start of the event, after the final checks and adjustments. The organization notifies participants as soon as they are available.
Are the stages fully marked, or do we just follow the trail?
The race must be completed exclusively on the track. Although there may be occasional reference points for safety reasons, the regulations require following the official track with your GPS.
Are there feed stations along the route?
Yes. Each stage has official aid stations offering water and food. The exact locations are listed in the stage profile and during the daily briefing, but as a general rule, they are located less than 40 kilometers apart.
Which bike is best suited for this route?
A mountain bike is ideal; we recommend a full-suspension model for greater comfort. Gravel bikes are allowed but are not ideal for this type of route.
Are e-bikes allowed?
Not in the general category. It is only allowed within the ebike program.
Are there any cutoff times?
There may be some stages where cut-off times are established to improve the safety of participants. These will be communicated in the briefing prior to the stage.
Are there shuttle services for riders between the camp and the starting line?
Yeah. When a stage does not start or finish at the hotel, the organization provides official transfers.