Mosta Cycling Club, the oldest and most successful cycling club in Malta, returns to the forefront of the local sporting calendar with another edition of the Ħaż Żebbuġ Bypass Road Race, an event that continues to evolve into one of the most complete showcases of the sport on the island.
Set along Triq L-Imdina, between the roundabouts connecting Triq Ħ’Attard and Telgħa tas Saqqajja, the race will be contested on a demanding 4.27-kilometre circuit. The repeated laps not only test riders physically and tactically, but also create a dynamic viewing experience, allowing spectators to follow the race closely as it unfolds in real time.
This year’s race carries added weight. It forms part of the Malta Cycling Federation National Club Series, while also serving as the 2026 Youth National Road Race Championships for the Under 12, Under 14 and Under 16 categories. The structure reflects a deliberate push to bridge elite competition with youth development, ensuring continuity within the sport.
Race distances will vary across categories, starting from 8.5 kilometres for the youngest participants and extending up to 93.3 kilometres for the Elite Men. The breadth of competition highlights the depth of Maltese cycling, with riders ranging from emerging prospects to experienced athletes who have already competed internationally.
Several participants have represented Malta at major events, including the UCI World Cycling Championships, the Games of the Small States of Europe and the Commonwealth Games. Their presence reinforces the growing standard of the sport locally and underlines the importance of continued investment and support.
Organisers are also placing a strong emphasis on atmosphere. A Festival Zone will be set up along the circuit, complete with music and a coffee van, aiming to transform the roadside into a lively hub for supporters and families. It marks a conscious effort to make cycling events more engaging and accessible, widening their appeal beyond traditional followers of the sport.
Proceedings will begin early, with the Youth National Road Race Championships kicking off at 7:00 am, followed by the Open categories from 8:00 am, including Junior, Masters and Elite races.
