Extreme heat and risk of wildfires force cancellation of Australia's Surf Coast Classic
CyclingTuesday, 27 January 2026 at 11:26
We are in the middle of the Australian summer and the extreme heat has been leaving its mark on professional cycling. At the Tour Down Under, the Old Willunga Hill was removed from the route last minute due to the extreme risk of wildfires. Now, the Surf Coast Classic has been cancelled for the same reason.
This is due to heightened bushfire risk, rapidly changing and unpredictable weather conditions, the need to keep evacuation routes clear and the requirement for Victoria Police and emergency services resources to remain focused on supporting impacted communities," a statement from the race organizers read.
"Event organizers are currently working closely with emergency services and local authorities to assess conditions and explore alternative options for Thursday 29 January, should it be safe and appropriate to do so. Further updates will be provided once confirmed".
There were both a men's and women's race scheduled for later this week, however none will take place. Strong winds and temperatures of over 30 degrees in the region of Geelong and Torquay - where the race was set to finish - create serious risks that could not be overlooked. The races were set for the 28 and 29 of January but will no longer take place.
Statement from race director
Scott Sunderland, director of the Surf Coast Classic, has issued the following statement in the press release:
“The safety of our riders, teams, staff, volunteers and spectators remains our highest priority.”
“Given the bushfire situation across the region and the advice from Victoria Police and emergency services, the safest and most responsible decision in the conditions is to cancel the races scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday.”
“While it’s unfortunate to cancel these two fantastic events, I’d like to acknowledge the CFA, Victoria Police, local authorities and our event partners for their strong collaboration and timely guidance throughout this process.”
“We’ll continue to work closely with emergency services and local authorities on whether it is safe and appropriate to hold an alternative event.”
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- Totally agree with Kulset. The guy obviously finds himself way superior lacking any form of self awareness. Not actually hard to follow a pro on a normal downhill for a while, especially in his windshade and at this time of year pros are not often riding fast so its unlikely he’s a great judge of things. Many amateurs have zero idea of riding in groups, let alone pelotons. Also seemed more interested in taking pics (something else you should be asking first) than riding “together”. This kind of uninvited action is only a small step away from stalking. Teams should really get the ok from sponsors for riders to ride incognito in crowded places outside competition when no team staff is around.Mistermaumau27-01-2026
- Seems the amateur rider was a safe distance behind.Hills3327-01-2026
- There's another article that's been added here that provides more details.
santiagobenites27-01-2026 - ...but what happened exactly? there was some video yesterday somewhere of Jonas training but the person filming was always behind??slappers6627-01-2026
- How sad, to bring down a Pro
leedorney27-01-2026 - That's it hey. It's always comparing apples and oranges with cycling. Different equipment, different weather, different competitors, often literally different courses. Even these big one day races the ground can change year to year. Oh but you "know" Eddy was better, mister pundit? silliness.antipodeanpedalfan27-01-2026
- “But Lance won 7” = the mating call of the butthurt Lance fan.mobk27-01-2026
- Publicity
QPSQUANTUM27-01-2026 - Pog has to win 7 TdF to match the true record ... sure Lance doped-- so did every one of his competitors...Xrider5127-01-2026
- Why is the doper clown now fronting this website with his opinions ?frieders327-01-2026
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