The 2026 4Islands Epic kicks off on the island of Krk with a brutal and technical opening stage in Baška, and the pace is already intense on the very first climb. A fast ride along the coast quickly leads to the first group split. The climb to the Moon Plateau shatters the field as riders ride their bikes as hard as they can to hold their position on the narrow, rocky singletrack. After that, the classic 4Islands Epic unfolds: open terrain, fast sections, and no room for error before the long descent to Dolovo and the final climb back to Baška.

The men’s race explodes early, but in the end, it comes down to perfect timing—and the Buff BH Team executes it flawlessly. They ride the opening phase in a controlled and smart manner, conserving energy while others are already pushing to their limits on the climbs. Then, at the decisive moment, they strike. A single, decisive attack on the final climb is enough to decide the race and secure the victory in 2:38:37.

Behind them, the KMC Ridley MTB Racing Team puts in a strong performance, holding their own all day and riding to second place. They exceed expectations but are unable to respond to the late surge in pace.
The Singer KTM Racing Team rounds out the podium in third place, maintaining a consistent pace and securing a good starting position for Stage 2.

In the women’s race, Katazina Sosna and her teammate Georgia immediately take control. Confident, efficient, and flawless, they break away from the pack and never relinquish the lead. Their lead grows steadily throughout the stage, and they cross the finish line with a lead of more than three minutes.

Behind them, Maria Zanantonello and Chrystelle Baumann put in a strong performance. In their first joint start at the 4Islands Epic, they exceeded all expectations and secured second place with a decisive attack in the final kilometers. Third place goes to marathon vice-world champion Anna Weinbeer and Tanja Priller. 

Results