XTERRA Belgium Returns to the Citadel of Namur for Ninth Edition

June 4, 2025

NAMUR, BELGIUM (June 4, 2025) /ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/ – On June 7, 2025, XTERRA Belgium returns for its ninth edition at the historic Citadel of Namur, transforming the ancient fortress into one of Europe’s most iconic off-road race venues. Set in the heart of Wallonia, the course winds through cobblestone climbs, forested trails, and panoramic river views, drawing crowds from across the region.

Originally built in the 10th century, the Citadel of Namur now serves as a public park and cultural site. Since 2016, it has also played host to XTERRA Belgium, a race known for its dramatic terrain and festival atmosphere. “It’s always a special moment to race here,” said Sébastien Carabin (BEL). “For all participants, from youth to age group and Elite, they’ll receive a warm welcome from Belgium.”

Elite Expectations

This year’s program includes eight race formats, including the Full Distance Triathlon with 28 XTERRA World Championship qualifying slots and a €7,500 prize purse. Kerri-Ann Upham (GBR), who began her XTERRA journey in Namur in 2018, returns now as an Elite. “I wasn’t sure I could even make it through the course,” she said of her first attempt. “That moment made me believe something more was possible.” Dutch contender Dieske Kruisselbrink (NLD) added, “I really like this event because of the tough course and riding down the stairs at the Citadel.”

Also expected are XTERRA South Africa winner Ryno Owen (ZAF) and XTERRA North American Championship podium finisher Sebastian Neef (DEU), both looking to push for a breakthrough European result.

Youth Qualifiers

XTERRA Belgium will again serve as a qualifier for the XTERRA Youth World Championship in Trentino. The Sprint is for Youth B (16–17) and Junior (18–19) athletes, while the Super Sprint is open to Youth A (14–15).

Apolline Ramboux (BEL), the reigning Youth A World Champion, returns to defend her home soil. “I don’t like swimming that much,” she said, “but I’m a fast rider.” Fellow Belgian Alexis Hainaut also returns after winning the Super Sprint last year. Junior contender Tom Dambroise (BEL) looks to build on his third-place finish in 2024, and Lou-Anne Dautun (BEL), who won XTERRA Ardennes in 2024, aims to rise in the rankings after finishing third in Namur last year.

Romy Schmeling (NZL), currently based in Paris, is set to make her XTERRA Belgium debut as a Youth B competitor. “I’ve heard this race in Belgium is one of the best. The atmosphere is what makes XTERRA special — everyone shares the same passion, and that creates such a great vibe.”

A Local Tradition

Namur’s residents have embraced the race weekend as a community festival, lining the trails and packing the after-party concert on Saturday night. “The Citadel is such a special place to race,” said reigning XTERRA World Cup Champion Felix Forissier (FRA).

This collective experience is made possible thanks to the support of the City of Namur, Infrasports, and Visit Wallonia, along with many other organizations, volunteers, and most of all, the local community.

Link to Full Announcement Article: XTERRA Belgium Returns to the Citadel of Namur

Photo credit: XTERRA

YouTube Highlights: youtube.com/watch?v=B4HpOPQWuAI