If you wonder what is Sixdays Cycling, you’re not alone — but you’re definitely missing out on one of the biggest (and most fun) events in track cycling! Now, it has become one of the most prominent track cycling events, second only to the World Championships in terms of prestige and popularity.

History in 3 sentences

It’s an event that started way back in 1878 in London, where it originally tested solo riders’ endurance over six days straight. At some point in the early 1900s, they switched to a team format, which made things way more exciting and strategic. Now, Sixdays has a long history as a mainstay in the track cycling world and is loved for its unique blend of athleticism and entertainment.

The “Controversy of the name”

Traditionally, Sixdays was a six-day marathon of cycling, but these days things have shifted a bit. Today, you’ll find different formats that span between 2 and 6 days, but the style of racing stays consistent across them all. Sixdays Cycling is now less about the number of days and more about the racing itself, which is full of variety and keeps the excitement alive from start to finish.

Here’s how it works

Endurance riders compete in teams of two, taking on a series of different races each day—Madison, time trials, elimination races, Derny races, you name it. The goal is to ride more laps than other teams. But if two or more teams have ridden the same distance, the points collected help to clarify the winner. Points stack up day by day, so each night brings new thrills as teams move up and down the leaderboard. The suspense builds across the event, with fans rooting for their favorite teams to climb to the top by the final day.

Why is it special?

But what makes Sixdays Cycling so special isn’t just the competition. The atmosphere is more like a festival than a sports event. Picture music, food, and a crowd that’s just as interested in having a good time as they are in the cycling. The stands are filled not only with cycling enthusiasts but also with people looking to enjoy the party-like vibe that Sixdays brings.

The Mission

Beyond entertainment, Sixdays plays a crucial role in bringing track cycling to the masses. It introduces newcomers to the sport in a friendly, accessible way, helping them appreciate the athletes’ skill and endurance. Moreover, Sixdays events often serve as testing grounds for new race formats and ideas, allowing organizers to experiment and refine the sport, which keeps it evolving and exciting.