Gravel Burn has raised the stakes in gravel racing, officially announcing a groundbreaking $150,000 (R2.8-million) prize purse for its inaugural event, making it the largest single-race prize purse in the history of gravel cycling. This milestone has been achieved thanks to a newly secured multi-year title sponsorship, to be unveiled on 13 February, which marks a pivotal moment for the race and the sport.

“Securing the title sponsor and offering the largest prize purse in gravel racing is a defining moment for Gravel Burn,” said Kevin Vermaak, founder of Gravel Burn. “Our goal isn’t just to host a race, it’s to create a platform that celebrates the best gravel cyclists in the world while inspiring the next generation. For professional riders who make a living in the sport, this prize purse underscores our commitment to setting a new benchmark in gravel racing. And for our amateur riders, who make up most of the field, it’s a unique experience to ride alongside cycling luminaries on the exact same course.”

The substantial prize offering is designed to attract top-tier riders from across cycling disciplines, boosting global visibility for Gravel Burn while solidifying South Africa’s Eastern Cape as a premier gravel racing destination. With world-class television production and media coverage, the event will showcase elite athletes against the breathtaking landscapes of the region, placing Gravel Burn firmly on the international stage.

South African gravel and mountain biking champion Matt Beers, a two-time Cape Epic winner, Belgian Waffle Ride champion, and 2024 Lifetime Grand Prix Series runner-up, expressed his enthusiasm:

“This changes everything. Gravel Burn is putting the focus on stage-racing in the gravel category. A prize purse of this magnitude shows how serious gravel cycling has become. It’s a big step toward further professionalising the discipline and giving it the recognition it deserves. It will also motivate international gravel racers, especially from the U.S., to come to South Africa to compete.”

Annika Langvad, five-time Cape Epic winner and multiple MTB World Champion, who recently returned to racing on the gravel circuit, added:

“This prize purse creates opportunities for both top riders and emerging talent to shine. It’s a major milestone that will undoubtedly attract global attention, setting a new standard for what gravel racing can achieve.”

With the introduction of Gravel Burn, South Africa now boasts two of the world’s largest prize purses in off-road cycling—one in mountain biking and now in gravel racing. This achievement underscores the country’s expertise in hosting world-class events and the commitment of its sponsors to advancing the sport.

The inaugural Gravel Burn will take place on 26 October 2025, promising a transformative experience for riders, fans, and the sport itself.

Related: Cape Epic Founder Launches New Gravel Race

About Gravel Burn
Gravel Burn is a 7-day, 850km full-service gravel stage race through South Africa’s diverse landscapes. Starting in lush, coastal forests, the route heads into the breathtaking Great Karoo – a famously vast, semi-desert region. Riders rest each night in remote camps under star-filled skies and, on the final day, are greeted by Africa’s iconic Big 5 wildlife. The Gravel Burn journey challenges and inspires, in equal measures.

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