Paraguay continues to strengthen its position as a host of major international sporting events with the upcoming Pan American Mountain Bike Championship XCO 2026 from 15 to 19 April, 2026, in Itapúa. The major event will be held right after the Copa Aguavista (UCI C1) on 11 and 12 April, also in Itapúa. These competitions will bring together some of the most prominent figures in mountain biking at both continental and global levels.
The events highlight Paraguay’s growing relevance in the international cycling scene. At the same time, it reinforces its capacity to organise high-level competitions. With elite athletes, international teams and global attention, the country is steadily becoming a key destination within the MTB calendar.
Itapúa at the centre of continental Mountain Bike
The department of Itapúa will host the Pan American Mountain Bike Championship. The competition will take place at the Aguavista circuit, located in San Juan del Paraná. All under the organisation of the Paraguayan Cycling Federation and the Consur Bike Club.
The event is expected to gather around 300 elite athletes from at least 15 countries. These include technical teams, official delegations and specialised media. In addition, approximately 1,500 visitors are projected to attend. This will generate a positive impact on sectors such as hospitality, gastronomy and local services. Beyond the sporting dimension, the championship will serve as a platform to showcase the natural and cultural attractions of Itapúa, boosting its visibility as a regional tourism destination.
International stars and competitive level
Among the confirmed participants are athletes from the BH Coloma Team, one of the most competitive teams in the international circuit. They are regularly present in the UCI Mountain Bike World Series. Confirmed riders include Chile´s Catalina Vidaurre, Brazil´s Ulan Bastos Galinski and Argentina´s Catriel Soto. They are all key figures in Latin American Mountain Bike.
Vidaurre stands out as a national champion and South American XCO titleholder, as well as a silver medallist at the Santiago 2023 Pan American Games. Galinski arrives as one of Brazil´s rising talents, with national titles and participation in the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Meanwhile, Soto brings extensive experience, including Pan American titles and appearances in two Olympic editions. Their presence will significantly raise the competitive level of both the Copa Aguavista and the Pan American Championship.
A boost for sport, tourism and development
The Pan American Mountain Bike Championship forms part of the official international cycling calendar. It awards key points for continental rankings, as well as qualification pathways to major competitions. These include World Championships and the Olympic Games. The competition will feature multiple modalities, including Cross Country Olympic (XCO), Short Track (XCC), Eliminator (XCE) and Team Relay (XCR). This offers a comprehensive and dynamic programme.
Beyond its immediate economic impact, the event is expected to leave a lasting legacy. It will promote sports participation, particularly among young people, encourage healthy lifestyles and contribute to the development of future generations of cyclists. At the same time, it will strengthen local sports infrastructure and enhance organisational capabilities. This raises Paraguay´s standards in hosting international sporting events. With initiatives like these, the country continues to position itself as an emerging hub for global sport.
