The UCI World Series Team Status represents the highest level of recognition and access in cross-country mountain biking. Managed by the Union Cycliste Internationale and promoted by Warner Bros. Discovery, this elite designation ensures that selected teams have guaranteed entries to all major UCI World Cup rounds, greater media exposure, and enhanced logistical support. For a professional XC team, receiving this status isn’t merely symbolic-it opens the door to better sponsorship opportunities, technical backing from manufacturers, and direct involvement in shaping the sport’s global narrative.
In essence, it defines the upper echelon of competitive cross-country racing. Only a limited number of teams receive the designation, which maintains an exclusive ecosystem where performance, consistency, and professionalism determine entry.
What is the Selection Process Behind UCI World Series Team Approval
Each cycle, the UCI reviews performance data, organizational standards, and long-term commitments of registered professional teams. The process typically evaluates both sporting results and management structure, ensuring that only those capable of maintaining high standards on and off the course are included.
For the upcoming 2026 and 2027 seasons, Warner Bros. Discovery, as the broadcast and event partner, plays an additional role in promoting the teams through enhanced visibility across its platforms. This partnership means teams aren’t just judged on race performance but also on their contribution to audience engagement, storytelling, and global representation of the sport.
Teams that meet the technical and sporting criteria-such as consistent top-10 finishes, financial stability, and the presence of elite male and female riders-are prioritized. Meanwhile, younger development teams may still be eligible if they demonstrate exceptional promise and professional structure.
How Warner Bros. Discovery Became a Key Player in XC Racing
When Warner Bros. Discovery took over the broadcasting and promotional rights for the UCI Mountain Bike World Series, the entire format of the sport changed. Their goal was to bring consistency and global appeal across all disciplines-cross-country, downhill, and enduro-under a single, unified platform.
By merging the storytelling power of television with the athletic intensity of mountain biking, the company has turned XC racing into a more accessible and media-friendly product. This transformation now influences how teams are chosen for World Series status, with greater emphasis placed on their visibility and professionalism beyond the racecourse.
As a result, the 2026–2027 selections are not only about who rides fastest but also about which teams can represent the sport in the most engaging and sustainable way for global audiences.
What is the Expected Field of Contenders for 2026 and 2027
Several powerhouse teams are widely expected to retain or gain UCI World Series Team Status. Names like Specialized Factory Racing, Cannondale Factory Racing, Trek Factory Racing, and Orbea Factory Team remain frontrunners thanks to their depth of talent and corporate support.
These teams have consistently performed at the highest level, fielding world champions and Olympic medalists across both men’s and women’s categories. Behind them, emerging outfits like Decathlon Ford Racing Team and Rockrider Ford Racing have quickly climbed the ranks, signaling a generational shift in team dynamics.
Privateer and semi-supported teams, such as Scott-SRAM or Ghost Factory Racing, are also in strong contention due to their balanced rosters and deep experience with the UCI circuit. Expect Warner Bros. Discovery to favor those who can combine sporting excellence with compelling narratives for global viewers.
When the Announcement for 2026–2027 Team Status Will Be Made
The official list of approved UCI World Series Teams is expected to be revealed in late 2025, following a rigorous review of the 2024 and 2025 racing seasons. The UCI traditionally uses results from World Cup standings, Nations Cup points, and internal compliance audits to determine eligibility.
Teams that meet all the requirements by September 2025 will receive preliminary notification, giving them time to secure sponsors, riders, and equipment before the 2026 season. The final confirmation typically follows in December, aligning with the official release of the World Series calendar.
This timeline ensures that teams and riders can adequately prepare for logistical demands, including travel, equipment transport, and broadcast commitments.
How Performance and Media Influence the Final Decision
In the new era of the UCI Mountain Bike World Series, racing performance remains paramount, but media impact is nearly as critical. Teams with active digital engagement, regular content production, and visible brand alignment have a stronger appeal to Warner Bros. Discovery.
In a sport where fans follow races online as much as they attend them in person, the ability to connect with global audiences through stories, social media, and behind-the-scenes access has become essential. A team that can engage audiences beyond the podium has a better chance of securing and maintaining World Series status.
Additionally, sustainability initiatives and diversity in team composition now play subtle yet important roles. Teams that demonstrate environmental responsibility or promote gender equality in their programs are increasingly favored as part of the broader effort to modernize the sport.
What is the Role of Development Teams in the New Structure
Development programs are the backbone of cross-country racing, and the UCI’s new system encourages stronger pathways for young riders. Warner Bros. Discovery’s expanded coverage means that feeder teams now receive more visibility than ever before, allowing talented under-23 riders to attract attention from major sponsors.
For 2026 and 2027, a handful of development teams are likely to earn conditional or “associate” World Series recognition, a secondary tier that allows partial participation in selected rounds. This ensures that the next generation of athletes gains real-world experience alongside the sport’s elite.
Programs like Trinity Racing, Santa Cruz RockShox, and Canyon CLLCTV Development have already shown their potential in this space. If they continue to perform consistently and maintain professional operations, they could become full-status teams by 2027.
How the Selection Reflects the Global Growth of XC Racing
The diversity of nations represented in the upcoming UCI World Series lineup reflects the sport’s expanding global footprint. Once dominated by European teams, the landscape now includes North American, Asian, and South American squads pushing for top-tier recognition.
This growth aligns with Warner Bros. Discovery’s goal of turning mountain biking into a mainstream global spectacle. By promoting multicultural representation and regional storytelling, the company ensures the sport resonates beyond traditional markets.
Expect to see new teams from Brazil, Japan, and South Africa entering the conversation for 2026, driven by both regional development programs and growing investment from local industries.
When Fans Can Expect the 2026–2027 World Series Calendar
Once the UCI finalizes team selections, the 2026–2027 calendar will follow shortly after. Fans can expect a mix of classic European venues-such as Nové Město, Lenzerheide, and Vallnord-alongside new courses in North America and Asia.
The inclusion of diverse race locations will challenge both athletes and teams to adapt to various terrains, climates, and cultural settings, reflecting the global essence of the World Series. The calendar reveal will likely coincide with the team announcement, allowing media outlets to highlight the full competitive picture for the coming seasons.
How the Future of XC Teams Is Being Redefined
The next two seasons will mark a turning point for professional cross-country racing. The combination of UCI governance and Warner Bros. Discovery’s media expertise is transforming how teams are built, funded, and presented to the world.
The 2026 and 2027 UCI World Series Team selections won’t just recognize racing success-they will redefine what it means to be a professional XC team in the modern era. Performance, communication, diversity, and sustainability will together shape the next generation of champions and the sport’s future identity.
