A demanding Corsica that surprised and captivated in equal measure. Teams pushed to their limits, yet happy to have experienced an exceptional adventure. From Corte to L’Île-Rousse, ARWC 2026 – Corsica is Magic delivered on every promise and left a lasting impression on everyone who shared the experience.
Setting off from Corte on 1 October, 98 teams representing 32 nations embarked on a journey across the island, combining trekking, mountain biking, packrafting, sea kayaking, canyoning and rope work. Ahead lay a 500-kilometre course, mountains to cross, rivers to paddle and nights spent navigating. Many were about to discover Corsica’s breathtaking beauty — and its unforgiving terrain.
The island did not make the crossing easy. The climbs, technical terrain, portages and demanding navigation tested even the most experienced teams. As the days passed, fatigue mounted, sleep became scarce and every step forward required more effort. Severe weather added another challenge, forcing changes to some sections of the course.
A race like no other
This edition will be remembered as one of the most demanding World Championships in the sport’s history. An adventure that required teams to keep moving, but also to think, wait, change strategy and look after one another.
Yet at every stage, Corsica offered reasons to keep going. The granite spires of Bavella, the high mountain ranges, including Monte Cinto, the rivers, villages and rugged coastline of the Calanques de Piana formed the backdrop to this journey. Beyond the hardship, there was always a view, a change in the light, an encounter. Whether chasing a title, taking on a challenge or simply seeking the experience of a unique race, every team leaves with its own story of the island.
The sporting contest also delivered on every promise. Estonian ACE La Sportiva claimed the world title ahead of 400Team Altore. Tactical Foodpack and Luberon MUC shared third place after a thrilling finish that will remain one of the defining moments of this championship.
Every finish tells part of the ARWC 2026 story
On Napoléon Beach in L’Île-Rousse, faces bore the marks of days of effort. There were tears, smiles, long embraces and sometimes a few moments of silence before the stories could be told. Teams were exhausted and relieved, but happy.
Happy to have reached the finish, to have held together and to have experienced something that goes far beyond a place in the rankings.
This adventure also belonged to an organising team working across the island. The 150 volunteers, medical and safety teams, logistics and media crews, partners and local authorities made this championship possible. Their commitment, readiness to help and ability to respond to the unexpected supported the racers all the way to the finish.
From the welcome in Corte to the final celebrations in L’Île-Rousse, Corsica gave this world championship a distinctive strength and character. The images have travelled far beyond the island; the memories will stay with everyone for years to come.
Corsica is Magic began as a promise. For everyone who experienced ARWC 2026, it is now a shared memory.
PROVISIONAL RESULTS ((before checking the teams’ GPS tracks and without taking any potential penalties into account)