Lauf Gravel Worlds 2026 Nebraska: $150K Prize Pool!

Words James Ion - Photography provided by Lauf Gravel Worlds

Credit: Clare Paniccia

Lauf Gravel Worlds is stepping into its 17th year in Lincoln, Nebraska, with what lead promoter Jason Strohbehn calls “moving our sport forward” by using the pro field to make the event better for every rider. For 2026, the Nebraska race delivers a record-breaking $150k professional prize pool, sponsored by GOODLIFE Nutrition, which will split the Lauf Gravel Worlds prize money evenly between men and women and pay 10-deep, making it the largest single-day prize purse in gravel cycling. “But this isn’t just about the pro race,” Strohbehn emphasises. “We’re using the pro field to make Gravel Worlds better for the everyday rider—by increasing safety, expanding our expo, adding more on-course resources, and elevating the entire experience for everyone who shows up to ride.”

Across August 19–23, Lincoln’s Sandhills Global Event Center turns into a full gravel festival, with routes from a non-competitive 35-mile ride up to the legendary 300-mile Long Voyage, plus the flagship 150-mile course rolling through southeastern Nebraska’s gravel, farm roads, and punchy hills.

The week now begins with a Short Track MTB race on Tuesday, followed by a two-day industry expo, Friday’s USAT Triathlon Gravel National Championships, Saturday’s bike events, and Sunday’s Ultra Marathon and Half Marathon run, “cementing Gravel Worlds as one of the most diverse and inclusive endurance celebrations in the world.” On the bike side, riders can expect classic self-reliance with upgraded support: no more than 30 miles between water and fully stocked aid stations on the premier 150-mile course, making long hours in the Nebraska wind more manageable without losing the spirit of adventure.

The 2026 changes go far beyond the prize purse. GOODLIFE Nutrition’s sponsorship enables major safety investments, with course marshals at every stop sign and additional law enforcement on course, “a level of support that raises the bar for gravel racing safety.” The event is also doubling down on access and media: there will be free, world-class live coverage on the Gravel Worlds YouTube channel and Outside TV, giving fans a front-row seat to the pro battles and the mid-pack stories alike. Lelan Dains steps in as the event’s “Maestro of Gravel,” overseeing key logistics of the professional race; a Hall of Famer who helped build Unbound Gravel’s rise, he says, “I’m excited to be back in the sport and to help a truly legendary event take its next step. Gravel Worlds has always pushed boundaries while respecting the more traditional aspects of the sport, and this next chapter is something special.”

Credit: Dan Hughes

Inclusivity sits at the core of the new chapter. For 2026, Gravel Worlds and GOODLIFE are investing in the next generation by making Junior racing free: all U18 categories of the 75-mile and non-competitive 35-mile distances are free, while U23 categories of the 150-mile distance are offered at 50% of the regular entry. “We’re incredibly excited to continue supporting young riders as they find their way into gravel cycling,” says assistant lead promoter Sofia Gibson. “Investing in young athletes today is how we ensure gravel cycling continues to grow in healthy, inclusive ways tomorrow.” At the same time, the 1000 Women of Gravel initiative returns: for every woman who attends or volunteers, $10 is donated to NICA GRiT Nebraska, supporting programs that empower young women through cycling and reflecting Gravel Worlds’ commitment to growing inclusivity in the sport.

The Gravel Worlds Foundation, launched in 2025, acts as the event’s nonprofit backbone, “created to be a magnifying glass for the generosity of the gravel community.” In 2025, the Foundation donated over $98,000 and in 2026, it will match up to $50,000 in donations made through Gravel Worlds Foundation initiatives, turning participation directly into impact for cycling, running, and fitness-related causes while reinvesting in the communities that host the event. The organisers describe their purpose as ensuring that Gravel Worlds “leaves a lasting legacy well beyond race weekend,” tying together race entries, partner commitments, and event initiatives into tangible support on the ground.

Rider experience remains a focal point from the front of the race to the very last finisher. On-course services will be increased, entertainment around the venue and throughout the week will be expanded, and the famed First2Last Party—which celebrates riders finishing after dark as they fight the 9:59:59 cutoff—will be “absolutely next level,” according to First-to-Last Coordinator Hannah Shell. “From the front of the pack to the final finisher, Gravel Worlds continues to double down on inclusivity and experience,” she says. “I’m beyond thankful that these changes will increase the experience for every single rider.” It reinforces the event’s long-held philosophy: built on inclusion, self-reliance, and community, Gravel Worlds “has always existed to celebrate the spirit and history of gravel cycling while challenging what the sport can become.”

For riders looking to pin on a number in Nebraska, registration for Lauf Gravel Worlds 2026 is available online here: https://www.movemint.cc/events/lauf_gravel_worlds_2026, where you can choose from the various race distances and categories. Detailed route information, schedules, and event updates are hosted on gravelworlds.com, including course maps, elevation profiles, and run-series details. Those wanting to stay close to the evolving story—from pro start lists and prize payout details to community initiatives and expo news—can follow @gravel_worlds on Instagram and Facebook, where ongoing announcements bring the “next chapter” of Gravel Worlds to life.