Mads Würtz Schmidt wins European Gravel Championship in Houffalize

Mads Würtz Schmidt has successfully defended his European Gravel Championship title in Houffalize, Belgium. The Danish rider completed the 138 km course in 4:09:57, securing his second consecutive European title following his 2025 victory.

Despite his dominance throughout the 2026 season, including wins at Unbound Gravel and The Traka 360, this race proved challenging. Schmidt attacked early and maintained a solo lead for approximately 50 km, but his advantage over Wout Alleman fluctuated, remaining under one minute for much of the decisive phase. Schmidt eventually extended his lead to finish 1:09 ahead of Alleman.

The podium was completed by Belgian riders Wout Alleman, who took silver, and Niels Vandeputte, who secured bronze with a time 3:43 behind the winner. Notable performances included Italy’s Gioele De Cosmo, who finished sixth, and Jakob Dorigoni, who finished eighth.