Epic Israel Cycling Race Returns to Northern Israel After War Closure

The Winner Epic Israel cycling race, now in its 11th year and held in memory of Giora Tzur, will return to the Western Galilee for the first time since the war. Scheduled from October 14-17, 2026, the event will take place in the Mateh Asher Regional Council and Nahariya, attracting hundreds of cyclists.

The race will traverse forests and singletrack trails that have been rehabilitated and reopened after being closed for approximately three years due to the conflict. The event, sponsored by Winner and Specialized, and in cooperation with the Jewish National Fund (JNF), will also include participation from wounded IDF soldiers from the "Brothers for Life" organization.

After a prolonged period where natural areas and trails in the north were inaccessible, the return of the race signifies a broader effort to restore sporting, community, and tourism activities to the region. The JNF has been undertaking extensive rehabilitation and upgrades to northern landscapes, including approximately 100 kilometers of singletrack trails in areas like Hanita, Kabri, Yehiam, and Matzuba.

Gal Tzur, founder and producer of Winner Epic Israel, emphasized the event's significance beyond just a new route. "We want to be among the first to return," he stated, highlighting the economic boost hundreds of cyclists and their families bring to local businesses. "We want the race to be part of this movement and help bring the North back to activity." He added that the race continues the legacy of his father, Giora Tzur, and that their return is a "significant moment" and a statement that "the North is returning."

The four-day race covers about 300 kilometers with an accumulated elevation gain of 3,000 meters, featuring singletracks and off-road sections. Shorter, one-day races, a junior category, and a relay race will also be held. The inclusion of wounded IDF soldiers from "Brothers for Life" adds a dimension of resilience, rehabilitation, and return to activity to the event.

Local officials, including the Mayor of Nahariya and the Head of the Mateh Asher Regional Council, expressed enthusiasm for hosting the race, viewing it as a symbol of the North's recovery and a catalyst for tourism and economic revitalization. The race aims to reconnect people with nature through cycling, fostering community and highlighting the region's beauty.