Sarasota Hosts Final UCI BMX World Cup Round for 2028 Olympic Points

The UCI BMX Racing World Cup ends its 10-round international tour this weekend in Sarasota. More than 200 elite cyclists from around the world are at the Sarasota BMX track for the final stop of the series in the United States. Points earned in Saturday and Sunday races directly impact riders' qualification for the 2028 Olympic Games.

The Sarasota venue is the oldest continuously operating BMX facility in the country. It serves as a home base for local competitors who have trained on the circuit for years. Myakka resident Jeremy Smith and Tyler Henry, who relocated to the area to train closer to the track, race in the event.

Henry has been racing since age 5. He described the weekend as the realization of a childhood goal. "I started racing when I was 5. This has kind of been the dream, just being able to race around guys that aren’t from here and be on the highest level," Henry said. "The highest level of BMX racing. It’s a blessing honestly. It’s a dream come true from a 5-year-old little kid."

Smith observed that the influx of foreign athletes has energized the local cycling community. He noted that international riders have posted photos of Florida beaches and palm trees on social media. "I think a lot of the other riders from the other country are going to fall in love with Florida," Smith said. "I think it’s also great for the local riders and local families to see such a great professional event. I think it’s great for Sarasota and all of us American riders."

The competition marks the conclusion of the international tour's sole American stop. Riders have spent years preparing for these specific races. For many on the roster, this final round represents the culmination of long-term dedication and training.

Spectators can watch the athletes compete in person during race heats scheduled across both days of the event. The track will host the final points-scoring sessions of the World Cup series this Saturday and Sunday.