The BMX Version Of Formula 1 Is Bringing The Fastest Riders On Earth To Brisbane This July

The countdown is on to the world’s biggest BMX racing event, and it’s happening right here in Brisbane. This July, more than 3,000 athletes are going wheel-to-wheel at the UCI BMX Racing World Championships over nine days of high-speed action and gravity-defying jumps.     

It’s the first time Brisbane has hosted the championships since 1989, that's a whole 37 years, and the timing couldn’t be better. Racing will take place at the upgraded Brisbane SX International BMX Centre, aka the very same venue set to host BMX Racing at the 2032 Olympic Games.

And yes, Olympic BMX racer Saya Sakakibara will be there. Fresh off her gold medal win in Paris, the 26-year-old Gold Coast local is headlining Australia’s elite squad. “Having the opportunity to race a home World Championships is a once-in-a-career type of opportunity," Sakakibara said. "I am all in on preparing the best I can.” 

Ready to cheer on the green and gold? Here’s everything you need to know about the BMX Racing World Championships. 

What Are The UCI BMX Racing World Championships?

In short, it’s the biggest BMX Racing competition on the planet. Over nine days, the world’s best riders from over 30 countries will battle it out for the coveted rainbow jersey, the title awarded to reigning world champions in cycling. 

The event includes six race days and three practice days, with pro riders, under-23 competitors, juniors, masters and amateur racers all taking to the track. More than 1,200 Australians have already qualified to compete, with top riders Jesse Asmus and Izaac Kennedy expected to join Sakakibara in the green and gold.

Here’s what the schedule looks like for 2026:

• 17 to 19 July: Championship practice, qualification rounds and finals 
• 20 to 21 July: Challenge practice sessions 
• 22 to 25 July: Challenge competition days 

The racing itself unfolds on the 400-metre track at Brisbane SX International BMX Centre at the Sleeman Sports Complex, where riders launch over huge jumps, whip around technical turns and sprint for the finish at terrifying speeds (reaching up to 50–60 kilometres per hour). Even if you know absolutely nothing about BMX Racing, trust us—this is a spectator sport you won’t want to miss.

What Else Is Happening On The Day?

The racing might be the headline act, but plenty is happening beyond the track, too. Think fan zones, meet and greets, athlete signings, major giveaways, expo activations, big-screen viewing areas, medal ceremonies and more. There'll also be food outlets to keep everyone fuelled between races. 

Whether you’re a cycling superfan or just keen to support thousands of Aussies competing on the world stage, the 2026 world championships are shaping up to be a high-energy event. 

Okay, I’m In. How Do I Grab Tickets?

Ready to secure your spot trackside? Tickets are already on sale, and you can choose from 1, 3, 6 or 9-day passes, depending on how much racing you want to catch. 

Grandstand Passes include elevated seating overlooking the finish straight, while Ground Passes put you right near the first straight for an up-close view of the action. 

THE DETAILS

What: 2026 UCI BMX Racing World Championships
When: Friday 17–Saturday 25 July 2026
Where: Brisbane SX International BMX Centre, 2 Anna Meares Circuit, Chandler
Grab tickets here.

Editor’s note: This article is sponsored by UCI BMX Racing World Championships and proudly endorsed by The Urban List. To find out more about who we work with and why read our editorial policy here.

Image credit: UCI BMX Racing World Championships and Saya Sakakibara | Instagram