Mladá Boleslav, 10 October 2025 – Škoda Auto is set to make a striking debut as an official partner of the Bolero UCI Gravel World Championships, taking place this weekend in the Dutch province of Limburg. Now in its fourth year, the event uniquely blends elite professional competition with the enthusiasm of amateur riders, who follow the same challenging course shortly after the pros.
For the first time, Škoda is providing the organisers with seven electrified vehicles, including five fully electric Enyaqs, while the all-electric Elroq will be showcased trackside. Fans can look forward to an immersive on-site experience, featuring a mobile café housed in the Elroq, competitions, games, and giveaways across two Škoda stands near the start and finish.
“Cycling marked the beginning of Škoda Auto 130 years ago. Since then, the company has travelled a long road of innovation and change – and the same is true for cycling,” says Martin Jahn, Škoda Auto Board Member for Sales and Marketing. “The rise of gravel cycling, which combines road riding with off-road adventure, is a great example. We’re proud to support this exciting discipline, showcasing our commitment to sustainable mobility by providing an electrified fleet. This partnership allows us to connect even more with everyday explorers who enjoy trying new things and embrace an active lifestyle.”
A Premier Event for Professionals and Amateurs Alike
Gravel cycling, one of the fastest-growing disciplines in the sport, combines the speed of road riding with the adventure of off-road terrain. This year’s course in Limburg, spanning Beek and Maastricht, will test both riders and their technique. On Saturday, women tackle 131 km, while the men face 180 km on Sunday, navigating four climbs ranging from 500 to 1,500 metres and several steep ramps. The most grueling section awaits near the finish, featuring over one kilometre at an average gradient of 8%, mostly on gravel. Reigning UCI Gravel World Champions Mathieu van der Poel and Marianne Vos, both from the Netherlands, will defend their titles.
Engaging Fans Onsite and Online
Beyond the race, Škoda’s presence enhances the spectator experience, with thousands attending the event and millions following the live broadcasts worldwide. The electrified fleet underlines Škoda’s commitment to sustainable mobility, while the Elroq’s mobile café serves the company’s sustainable Curiosity Fuel coffee. Fans can participate in interactive activities, competitions, and games, strengthening the connection between the brand and cycling enthusiasts.
A Legacy of Cycling and Innovation
Škoda Auto’s involvement in cycling is deeply rooted in its heritage. Founded by Václav Laurin and Václav Klement, the company began by manufacturing bicycles in Mladá Boleslav in 1895. Today, cycling remains a central pillar of Škoda’s sponsorship strategy, encompassing globally renowned events such as the Tour de France and Vuelta a España. Earlier this year, Škoda extended its support to the Mountain Bike World Championships and the Bolero UCI Gravel World Championships for the next two seasons, reinforcing its commitment to connecting with active, adventure-oriented customers across Europe and beyond.
With its electrified fleet on display and a weekend full of on-site engagement, Škoda Auto continues to champion the union of mobility, sustainability, and sport – celebrating the spirit of adventure on two wheels and four.
