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Balooshi and Karlsson take Yellow Jersey at 2026 L'Etape Dubai

L’Etape by Tour de France launched its 2026 global series today in Dubai with thrilling races across multiple distances. Majid Al Balooshi of the United Arab Emirates won the men’s 115 km marquee event, while Sweden’s Carolina Karlsson claimed the women’s 115 km title.

Balooshi and Karlsson take Yellow Jersey at 2026 L'Etape Dubai

The opening round delivered high drama, close finishes and strong international fields, signaling an exciting season ahead. Over 1200 amateur cyclists from 79 countries, plus WorldTour superstars Peter Sagan and Zdenek Štybarm took part in the second edition of L’Etape Dubai.

In a tightly fought 115-kilometer contest under warm conditions, Al Balooshi crossed the line in 2:36:21 to don the leader’s yellow jersey. He was followed closely by Omani rider Faisal Almamari in 2:36:45 and Russia’s Stepan Shishkov in 2:36:46, completing a podium decided by seconds. Karlsson took the women’s 115 km victory in 2:37:52, with Russia’s Kristina Zabolotko and Maria Bykovskaya finishing second and third in 2:42:59 and 2:43:01 respectively.

Shorter-distance races showcased emerging talent and competitive depth. Chrysler Tadena of the Philippines won the 67 km event in 1:37:50, while Czech rider Alena Pavlatova secured the women’s medio title in 1:39:03. Sprint honors were contested in the Peter Sagan Sprint Challenge, where Italy’s Francesco Bettini claimed the men’s sprint title and Carolina Karlsson added the women’s sprint victory to her overall win—highlighting her strong form and tactical speed.

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“The Dubai event set the tone for a dynamic 2026 season,” said Emma Laurent, Regional Race Director for L’Etape by Tour de France. “We saw outstanding performances from local and international riders, close finishes across the board, and great spectator energy. That mix of elite competition and mass-participation spirit is exactly what L’Etape aims to deliver as we visit cities around the world this year.”

Organizers said the opening round drew a diverse field of competitors and amateur riders, underscoring the series’ dual focus on elite racing and broad-based participation. The event combined competitive timing, age-group categories and community rides to offer something for every cyclist, from seasoned racers to recreational riders looking to tackle a Tour-style challenge.

L’Etape by Tour de France continues its 2026 calendar with additional international stops planned throughout the year, each featuring iconic routes, timed races and a festival atmosphere that celebrates cycling culture. Riders and fans can expect more close contests, emerging stars, and opportunities for local athletes to test themselves against international competition as the series moves forward.

Link to 2026 L'Etape Dubai Results: https://results.sporthive.com/events/7418976690084275968

 
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