Round one of the 2026 FIM Hard Enduro World Championship at 24MX Alestrem ended in controversy as Manuel Lettenbichler was officially awarded the victory following a timing and course marshalling issue that altered the final results.
Initial classifications saw Billy Bolt cross the line first, but confusion surrounding race direction and lap counting led officials to revise the standings, ultimately reinstating Lettenbichler at the top.
Race Drama and Confusion
The demanding Alestrem course once again delivered extreme conditions, pushing riders to their limits across rocky terrain, steep climbs, and technical sections.
However, the race outcome was overshadowed by controversy after reports that the race leader was not correctly directed by course marshals. As a result, officials made the decision to reduce the race by one lap, significantly impacting the final classification.
This ruling promoted Manuel Lettenbichler to victory ahead of Billy Bolt and Teodor Kabakchiev, despite Bolt having originally taken the checkered flag first on track.
Updated Results – Alestrem 2026 (Round 1)
| Position | Rider | Time | Gap |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Manuel Lettenbichler | 3:40:50 | - |
| 2 | Billy Bolt | 3:41:38 | +0:48 |
| 3 | Teodor Kabakchiev | 3:46:46 | +5:56 |
| 4 | Mario Román | 3:47:05 | +6:15 |
| 5 | Wade Young | 3:51:11 | +10:21 |
| 6 | Mitch Brightmore | 3:54:14 | +13:24 |
| 7 | Ashton Brightmore | 3:55:22 | +14:32 |
| 8 | Matthew Green | 4:00:55 | +20:05 |
| 9 | Toby Martyn | 4:08:36 | +27:46 |
| 10 | Eddie Karlsson | 4:10:00 | +29:10 |
Impact on the Championship
With the revised results, Lettenbichler begins the 2026 season with maximum points, while Bolt is forced to settle for second despite his on-track performance.
The incident is likely to remain a talking point in the paddock, raising questions about race management and consistency in officiating at the highest level of hard enduro.
Looking Ahead
Despite the controversy, the opening round highlighted the incredible level of competition within the championship, with multiple riders capable of fighting for victory.
As the series moves to round two, all eyes will be on whether this result sparks added intensity in what is already shaping up to be a fiercely competitive 2026 season.