From 7 to 12 July, the Cottbus Velodrome (Germany) will once again become the centre of European youth Track cycling as it hosts the 2026 UEC Track Junior and Under-23 European Championships.
485 athletes from 32 countries will compete for 44 European titles at an event which brings together the continent’s finest talents every year and represents a crucial step in the development of tomorrow’s champions. Once again this year, a week of top-class competition is expected, with Europe’s best talents ready to showcase their skills.
For Cottbus, this marks a welcome return after successfully hosting the 2024 edition. The German velodrome has for years been an international benchmark for the preparation of elite athletes, but it also stands out for its ongoing commitment to promoting activities for young people and training new generations of track cyclists.
Enrico Della Casa, President of the Union Européenne de Cyclisme: “Following the success of the 2024 edition, we are delighted to return to Cottbus for one of the most important events on our calendar. This velodrome is a true centre of excellence for Track cycling, combining top-level training with a constant focus on recruiting and developing young talent. Six days of intense and spectacular competition lie ahead, during which we will have the opportunity to see in action the athletes who will be the leading figures in European and world cycling in the years to come. These Championships represent much more than just a continental competition: they offer a glimpse into the future of our sport.
I would like to extend my sincere thanks to the Organising Committee, led by Axel Viertler with the invaluable support of the tireless Detlef Uibel, to the sponsors, to German Cycling and its President Bernd Dankowski, who have once again demonstrated great confidence and unwavering commitment to our sport. I would also like to extend a special thank you to the many volunteers who, with professionalism, enthusiasm and a spirit of service, have worked – and will continue to work – behind the scenes to make this event possible. Their contribution is essential and forms one of the cornerstones of the success of every European Championship.”
At the 2025 event in Anadia, Great Britain topped the medal table with 10 gold, 8 silver and 8 bronze medals, ahead of Italy (10 gold, 6 silver and 6 bronze) and Germany (6 gold, 7 silver and 5 bronze).
