The legendary Dragon Ride cycling sportive is set to thrill riders once again on Sunday 14 June 2026 and we’re delighted to announce that the King and Queen of the Mountain challenges will return to this summer, giving riders the chance to battle it out once again on one of Wales’ toughest ascents.

Known across the UK and beyond as one of the toughest and most scenic sportives in the country, the Dragon Ride tests endurance, grit and climbing prowess across its iconic routes through the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons).

Each year, thousands of cyclists tackle the Cymru Classic, Medio Fondo, Grand Fondo and Dragon Devil distances, taking on relentless gradients and eye-watering elevation gain, from 1,250 metres of climbing across the shorter routes to a brutal 4,614 metres on the Dragon Devil.

But one ascent stands above the rest.

The Devil’s Elbow Returns to the Dragon Ride

Featured on three of the four routes, the fearsome ‘Devil’s Elbow’ climb has earned near-mythical status among Dragon Slayers thanks to its closed-road time trial format and brutal profile. After last appearing in 2023, we’re thrilled to confirm that this iconic climb will return for the 2026 Dragon Ride.

Stretching 1.8km at a savage average gradient of 10.3%, the Devil’s Elbow is a true test of climbing power. With routes reversed for 2026, the event is shaping up to be one of the most exciting editions yet. Full route details are still being finalised and will be revealed in due course. In the meantime, you can check out the 2025 routes here.

How the King and Queen of the Mountain Are Crowned

The coveted King of the Mountain (KOM) and Queen of the Mountain (QOM) titles are awarded to the fastest male and female riders on the Devil’s Elbow timed section.

Every cyclist who conquers the climb will receive an official time for this closed-road segment, but only two will emerge victorious and write their names into Dragon Ride history.

Prizes Fit for Dragon Slayers

The 2026 winners won’t just earn bragging rights. Both champions will receive:

🏆 Engraved “Dragon Slayer” pint glasses courtesy of our event partner Erdinger

🎁 An additional prize, to be revealed soon…

Could You Be the Dragon Ride KOM or QOM in 2026?

If you’ve ever dreamed of proving yourself on one of the UK’s toughest sportive climbs, this is your moment, because the Dragon Ride King and Queen of the Mountain 2026 titles are waiting to be claimed.

Places for the event are strictly limited to protect rider experience, with the Dragon Devil distance already sold out and limited spots remaining across the three other routes. Due to high demand, entries will close on Wednesday 4 February. You can secure your place today here.

Are you ready to rise to the challenge?