A total of 387 athletes from 27 nations competed for the continental titles - from the U13 category to the Masters. This underlines Downhill's growing importance in European cycling.

In the elite category, Simon Chapelet (France) and Lisa Baumann (Switzerland) triumphed in a spectacular competition on a technically demanding course. Chapelet beat defending champion Andreas Kolb (Austria, 2'57''08) by a wafer-thin margin in the thrilling men's final with a time of 2'57''08. Third place went to Frenchman Johan Garcin in 2'57''62.

In the women's race, Lisa Baumann impressed with a confident run in 3'26''31. The Swiss athlete relegated Gloria Scarsi (Italy, 3'26''51) and Vicky Clavel (France, 3'27''91) to the other podium places. The junior titles went to Rosa Zierl (Austria) and Omri Danon (Israel).

Enrico Della Casa, President of the UEC, was delighted: "La Molina offered a great edition of the European Downhill Championships - characterized by great participation, an electrifying atmosphere and an enchanting natural backdrop. This region of the Pyrenees shows enormous potential, not only for off-road sport, but also for the development of summer cycling tourism."

Della Casa emphasized the growing appeal of downhill: "This discipline inspires a young, passionate audience - with spectacular races full of excitement." He thanked the local organizing committee led by Albert Balcells, the Real Federación Española de Ciclismo with President José Vicioso, all partners, supporters, national federations and the athletes and teams.

"The UEC will continue to invest in the development of off-road cycling and organize more international competitions in places like La Molina - places that perfectly combine sport, nature and hospitality," concluded Della Casa.

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