World Cycling Centre

Welcome to the hub where one of the world's most dynamic sports is developed. The World Cycling Centre is a high-tech facility and the headquarters of the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI), located in the charming town of Aigle. Situated in the heart of Switzerland, this centre has become a true home for professional athletes and speed enthusiasts from all corners of the globe.

World Cycling Centre. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The complex is impressive in its scale and equipment: it features a unique 200-metre indoor wooden velodrome, professional BMX tracks with jumps of varying difficulty, and a modern pump track. It is not just a sports facility but a full-fledged educational hub where world-class champions and future coaches are trained.

For tourists, the centre is interesting because it combines elite sports with accessibility for everyone. Visitors can not only observe Olympians in training but also visit exhibition halls dedicated to the history of the bicycle or relax in a cozy restaurant on the banks of the Rhone River. It is an ideal stop for those who appreciate the energy of movement and Swiss quality.

You can contact the centre's administration to check schedules or book training sessions through official communication channels. The staff is always ready to help guests navigate the services offered.

The main highlight of the World Cycling Centre is the opportunity to see professional athletes in action. You can freely watch training sessions at the indoor velodrome or catch extreme jumps on the BMX tracks. For cycling fans, this is a rare chance to be on the same grounds as world-class stars.

For those looking to test themselves, the centre offers special introductory sessions. Under the guidance of experienced instructors, you can take your first ride on the steep banking of the wooden track or try your hand at BMX (service available upon request). If you prefer something more relaxed, the pump track is open to everyone for free—it's the perfect place for kids and adults to practice their coordination on any type of bike.

In addition to the sporting excitement, be sure to take some time for the cultural side. Visit the permanent exhibitions that tell the story of legendary races and the evolution of the bicycle in the 20th century—entry is free. After your walk, stop by Le Velodrome restaurant: its terrace by the Rhone River offers a wonderful view and the chance to dine in the atmosphere of major sport.

Reaching this sports hub at Allée Ferdi Kübler 12 is quite straightforward. If you are traveling by train (SBB), you need to get to the Aigle station. From the station, the complex is approximately a 15-minute walk away, offering lovely mountain panoramas, or you can take a taxi or a local bus.

For those preferring to drive, the most convenient route is via the A9 motorway, taking the exit for Aigle. Spacious free parking is available for visitors right at the centre. Additionally, the centre is located near the scenic cycling routes of the Canton of Vaud, making it easily accessible for those who decide to arrive on their own bike.

The idea of creating this unique facility was born in the 1990s through the initiative of the leadership of the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI). The centre was envisioned as an educational platform to develop cycling worldwide. The official opening of the complex in the town of Aigle took place in 2002, coinciding with the 100th anniversary of the UCI itself.

Since then, the centre has been the stage for many landmark events. It has hosted over 1,000 training camps and trained around 600 high-level specialists, from mechanics to sports directors. In 2014, the velodrome witnessed a historic moment when Austrian rider Matthias Brändle set the UCI Hour Record here, covering a distance of 51.852 km.

Over the years, the centre has hosted Para-cycling World Championships and Junior Track World Championships. Athletes who later became legends, including Chris Froome and Daniel Teklehaimanot, have passed through its training programs. In 2022, the complex celebrated its 20th anniversary, solidifying its status as the premier global hub for all cycling enthusiasts.

For a standard introductory visit, which includes exploring the exhibitions and watching training sessions, we recommend setting aside 2 to 4 hours. This allows you to walk through the grounds without rushing, take great photos, and perhaps spend some time in the velodrome stands.

If you plan to book an introductory session on the track or BMX course, you should count on a full half-day. Families with children might spend even more time here, as the free pump track is a place where young cyclists are often happy to spend hours on end.

The World Cycling Centre complex is open to guests throughout the week. From Monday to Friday, it is open from 7:30 to 19:00. On weekends, the schedule shifts slightly: doors open at 9:00 on Saturday and at 11:00 on Sunday, while the closing time remains the same (19:00).

It is important to note that the public pump track on the grounds is available 24/7 and is free of charge. However, for specialized training sessions at the velodrome or BMX tracks, it is recommended to check the schedule on the official website in advance, as access may be restricted during official competitions.

Exploring the surroundings of Aigle will help make your trip even more fulfilling and diverse. After visiting the ultra-modern cycling centre, it is especially interesting to dive into the medieval atmosphere and discover the region's natural landmarks.