The following release is published with permission from the World Mountain Running Association (WMRA) and features the hosting venue for the 2026 U18 International Mountain Running Cup. Featured photo: U18 boys’ champion Alain Cavagna (ITA) in Gagliano del Capo 2017.
Paolo Germanetto (ITA) and WMRA president Tomo Sarf (SLO) sign the U18 contract for 2026.
The WMRA is proud to announce that the 19th edition of the U18 International Mountain Running Cup will take place on June 21, 2026, in Gagliano del Capo, Italy. This southern gem of Apulia, perched between the Adriatic and Ionian Seas, will offer an exciting new terrain for the world’s best young mountain runners. This marks the second time the U18 competition has been held in Gagliano del Capo. The first time was in 2017, and the venue has also hosted the World Masters Mountain Running Championships in 2019.
Along the seaside in Gagliano del Capo. Photo: Nancy Hobbs
Athletes in the U18 competition will take on a 4.6 km course with 191 meters of ascent, racing along rugged Mediterranean paths with panoramic sea views. The location’s unique geography, hospitality, and natural beauty make it an inspiring venue for the next generation of mountain running stars.
On course in Gagliano del Capo 2017. Photo: Nancy Hobbs
From Slovakia’s mountain to Italy’s coast: a new chapter in U18 competitions
The 2025 U18 Cup in Donovaly, Slovakia, was hailed as one of the most successful editions in the event’s history. Nestled in the Low Tatra Mountains, Donovaly—a premier Slovak ski resort—offered an epic course and stunning alpine scenery.
Teams from 18 countries, including Mexico, Lithuania, the USA, and Serbia, competed fiercely on a challenging route finishing at the top of Nova Hola Mountain. Spectators enjoyed a unique view of the action thanks to the ski lift, which also aided runners’ descent post-race. The warm atmosphere, international camaraderie, and flawless organization confirmed Donovaly’s place among the Cup’s standout hosts.
A quick start for the girls in Slovakia 2025. Photo: Marco Gulberti/WMRA
Editor’s note: Read Team USA’s results from the 2025 U18 International Mountain Running Cup here.
A legacy of inspiration: WMRA and the power of youth in mountain running
For more than 40 years, the WMRA has been at the forefront of global mountain running, shaping its development and expanding its reach across all levels and age groups. Alongside its long-standing commitment to the senior elite circuit through the WMRA World Cup, now entering its 26th season, the association has also proudly organized over 20 editions of the Masters Mountain Running World Championships, celebrating lifelong dedication to the sport.
At the heart of its youth development efforts stands the U18 International Mountain Running Cup, which will mark its 19th edition in Gagliano del Capo in 2026. This event is a cornerstone of WMRA’s mission to introduce the next generation to the sport’s values—resilience, connection to nature, and international camaraderie—while offering young athletes a chance to shine on a global stage.
Team USA at the 2017 WMRA International Mountain Running Cup in Italy.
In an era where junior athletes are increasingly active on social media, the U18 Cup has become a powerful platform for visibility and engagement, amplifying the reach and impact of mountain running far beyond the racecourse. Year after year, this celebration of youth and sport continues to inspire thousands of young followers around the world and strengthens the vibrant, multi-generational community that the WMRA has built over its rich history.
Editor’s note: Learn about youth opportunities in 2025 at the international level here. ATRA features youth on its website at this link.
