1300 riders tackle GFNY Cannes this Sunday

April 9, 2026

GFNY Euro season opens with the 5th edition on the Côte d’Azur

New York City, April 9, 2026 /ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/ – GFNY Cannes returns this Sunday, offering riders the perfect start to the European season. The 115.7 km racecourse takes participants from the Côte d’Azur into the scenic hinterland and back, featuring a demanding 2,159 meters of elevation gain.

After a fast start along the Mediterranean coastline, riders head inland into the wild beauty of the Estérel massif and the Provençal hinterland. Two key climbs will shape the race: the 7.6 km ascent of Col du Tanneron, with gradients reaching over 10%, followed by the longer and decisive 13.7 km Col d’Avaye, a two-part climb through narrow roads and breathtaking landscapes.

“Cannes opens the French and European GFNY racing season with the red carpet rolled out,” says CEO Uli Fluhme. “We’re proud of what we have built in France in such a short time. And we are using the French model as a launchpad to further grow GFNY across Europe.”

Race week festivities will once again take place at the legendary Palais des Festivals, world-renowned for hosting the Cannes Film Festival. The official program includes group rides, welcome events, and the race expo, bringing together riders from around the world ahead of race day.

On Sunday, the race will start at Jetée Saint Apollinaire, with riders rolling out at 7:30 am along the iconic seafront. The finish line will welcome participants back to the Mediterranean with post-race celebrations, awards, and festivities by the sea.

GFNY riders, along with their families and friends, will enjoy the unique atmosphere of one of the world’s most iconic destinations. From the vibrant beach scene to fine dining, stylish bars, luxury boutiques, private yachts, and elegant hotels along the famous Boulevard de la Croisette, GFNY Cannes offers an unforgettable experience both on and off the bike.

Website: cannes.gfny.com

About GFNY

GFNY is an international cycling organization that designs, owns, and operates a structured system of races worldwide. Its competitive hierarchy connects GFNY races with National and Continental Championships, culminating in the GFNY World Championship in New York City. This progression is known as the GFNY Road to NYC.

GFNY events feature fully timed racing with age-group competition and are open to a wide range of riders, combining competitive structure with accessible participation. GFNY operates its own integrated registration, results, and ranking system, maintaining direct relationships with participants across all events. While road cycling is its foundation, GFNY also operates select events in gravel, mountain bike, and running within the same competitive framework.

Website: gfny.com

About the Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship New York City

The Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship New York City is GFNY’s flagship event and the final stage of the GFNY Course to NYC. Held annually on a challenging road course in and around New York City, it brings together riders from more than 90 countries.

Website: nyc.gfny.com

GFNY Pro Series

The GFNY Pro Series is GFNY’s professional racing platform, built around an integrated Pro–Am format in which UCI-sanctioned professional races are held on the same courses and weekends as GFNY mass-participation events. The format was pioneered at Gran Premio New York City and is expanding selectively to additional locations, including Gran Premio Cozumel, subject to UCI approval.

Website: gp.gfny.com

Further Material for Media Use

Official GFNY Aguascalientes Video: here

GFNY Press Images: here

GFNY Results: here

GFNY World calendar graphic: here

Previous GFNY press releases: here

Media Contact

Gran Fondo New York Inc.

Uli Fluhme, uli@gfny.com

Caroline Lindsay, caroline@gfny.com