ARWC 2026 – Corsica is Magic event concludes

From Corte to L'Île-Rousse, the ARWC 2026 – Corsica is Magic kept all its promises and left a deep impression on those who shared the experience.

Teams navigate challenging terrain

Starting from Corte on the 1st of October, 98 teams representing 32 nations set off on a journey across the island combining trekking, mountain biking, packrafting, sea kayaking, canyoning, and ropes.

Course tests competitors' endurance

Before them, a course of 500 kilometers, mountains to cross, rivers to descend, nights to navigate. And a Corsica that many would discover in its full beauty, but also in its harshness.

Island's difficulty challenges teams

Because the island did not allow itself to be crossed easily. The terrain, technical ground, portages, and the difficulty of navigation tested even the most experienced teams.

Weather adds to the challenge

Over the days, fatigue accumulated, sleep became rare, and every advance required more effort. The weather added a new difficulty, requiring certain sections of the course to be adapted.

Participants reflect on their journey

On the Napoleon Beach in L'Île-Rousse, faces bore the marks of several days of effort. There were tears, smiles, long embraces, and sometimes a few moments of silence before being able to recount.

Teams express relief and happiness

Exhausted, relieved, but happy teams. Happy to have arrived, to have held together, and to have experienced something that goes far beyond a ranking.

Event relies on local support

This adventure was also that of an organization mobilized across the entire territory. The 150 volunteers, medical and security teams, logistics and media teams, partners, and local authorities made this championship possible.

Corsica's spirit enhances the event

Their commitment, availability, and ability to deal with unexpected situations accompanied the athletes until the end. From the welcome in Corte to the final celebration in L'Île-Rousse, Corsica gave this global event a unique strength and personality.

Event's legacy extends beyond the island

The images traveled far beyond the island. The memories, however, will remain engraved in people's minds for a long time.

Race director reflects on the experience

"Corsica is Magic was a promise. For those who lived through this ARWC 2026, it is now a shared memory," summarizes Pascal Bauhaud, director of the race.

Local governance issues arise

Autonomy: The president of the Senate's Legal Affairs Commission questions Corsican elected officials. Corsican roads: The Regional Chamber of Accounts points out insufficient maintenance.

Agricultural leaders criticize official conduct

Agricultural Chamber: "We have no lesson in integrity and democracy to receive from François-Xavier Ceccoli."

Local media reports on regional issues

U tempu in Corsica A màghjina - L’alba nant’à e Cerbicale