Video

Race the World | Episode 6 | SPAR Swiss Epic

The Epic Series heads to the breathtaking Swiss Alps, where champions like Vera Looser, Alexis Skarda, Fabian Rabensteiner, and Casey South rise above with strategy, grit, and determination. Alongside passionate amateurs from around the world, they take on every challenge this class-defining race can throw at them.

The Epic Series heads to the breathtaking Swiss Alps, where champions like Vera Looser, Alexis Skarda, Fabian Rabensteiner, and Casey South rise above with strategy, grit, and determination. Alongside passionate amateurs from around the world, they take on every challenge this class-defining race can throw at them. 

The SPAR Swiss Epic is a demanding yet deeply rewarding five-day mountain bike stage race through the heart of the Alps. Riders grind up relentless climbs, flow down thrilling descents, and push their limits amid staggering alpine beauty. 

Ready to take on the SPAR Swiss Epic in 2026? 

The Alps. The trails. The riders. The 2026 SPAR Swiss Epic will be a masterpiece of endurance and beauty. Secure your spot before prices rise on Sunday, 16 November.

Race the World Episode 6: Above It All.

The SPAR Swiss Epic is a demanding yet rewarding five-day stage race across the Swiss Alps where riders battle through long climbs and flow down spectacular descents, taking in the staggering beauty of Graubünden’s alpine landscapes. It’s more than a race; it’s a journey that tests body and mind, where every ascent brings you one step closer to being above it all.

In Episode 6 of the Epic Series, we travel to the heart of the Alps to witness the raw emotion, the triumphs, and the moments that define this world-class event. Over five gruelling days, riders faced relentless climbs, technical descents, and the unpredictable moods of the mountains. The SPAR Swiss Epic rewards not just power, but perseverance and this episode capture exactly that.

 

Image
Vera Looser and Alexis Skarda winners
Image
Meerendal Start
Image
Prologue

Triumph and Tenacity at the SPAR Swiss Epic

For Vera Looser and Alexis Skarda, the final stage was a story of redemption and resolve. Looser, already a champion of the 2023 event, had endured a season of near misses. Skarda, arriving from the U.S. without her luggage and unsure of her form, turned adversity into motivation. Together, they climbed toward the summit of the Panorama Trail, controlling the final 39 kilometres with quiet authority. By the finish line, they stood above it all both literally and figuratively transforming uncertainty into victory, and effort into excellence.

In the men’s race, Torpado Kenda FSA’s Fabian Rabensteiner and Casey South showcased the discipline and composure that define champions. Wearing the yellow CIOVITA jerseys, they handled the pressure with calm precision. On the Wolfgang Climb and Flüela Trail, strategy triumphed over speed as they converted patience into dominance. Their performance was a masterclass in what it means to rise above mentally and physically when the stakes are highest.

 

Image
Torpado Kenda FSA’s UCI Men winners

A celebration of the spirit of athletes who embrace every challenge.

Every climb, every descent, every corner of this race told a story of persistence. Klimatiza Orbea’s late attacks, Metallurgica Veneta’s bold moves, and the women’s meticulous pacing over 2,321 meters of alpine ascent reminded us that the SPAR Swiss Epic is more than a competition; it’s a proving ground for character. Even teams like Marc Stutzmann and Samuele Porro, who fought back from early misfortune, showed that true victory lies in resilience.

Episode 6: “Above It All” captures these moments with heart and authenticity. It’s not just about who crossed the line first it’s about how they did it, and why they kept going. It celebrates the spirit of athletes who embrace every challenge, from lost luggage to technical terrain, and transform them into stories of grit, growth, and glory.

 

Image
Riders from Argentina celebrating their achievement

The SPAR Swiss Epic may be over, but its message endures: perseverance wins where talent alone may falter, focus turns challenge into achievement, and partnership lifts us all above it all.

As the European season draws to a close and the Epic Series looks ahead to South Africa and beyond, Episode 6 reminds us why we ride, why we watch, and why every epic journey no matter how steep is worth every pedal stroke.

Watch Episode 6 now and experience what it means to be truly Above It All.

 

Related Events