Perth Hosts 2026 Road National Championships, Driving Global Attention and Big Economic Gains for Western Australia’s Tourism

Published on January 7, 2026

The 2026 Road National Championships kicked off in Perth, bringing Australia’s top cyclists to the Western Australian capital for five days of elite competition. From January 7 to 11, this highly anticipated event will feature time trials, criterium races, road races, and the sold-out Gran Fondo National Championships. As Australia’s premier road cycling event, it is expected to draw thousands of spectators, both from within Australia and overseas, providing a significant boost to sports tourism and the local economy.

Showcasing Perth’s Iconic Locations to a Global Audience

This prestigious event offers a unique opportunity to showcase Perth’s iconic landmarks to a global audience. The competition will take place across some of the city’s most recognizable locations, including Kings Park, Northbridge, Bold Park, and the Perth High Performance Centre, with races also covering the bustling Perth CBD. The event will be broadcast live across Australia and the world, offering viewers an exciting glimpse of Perth’s vibrant urban landscape and natural beauty. This international exposure will not only celebrate the skill of the cyclists but also position Perth as a top destination for sports tourism, drawing attention to the city’s attractiveness for future international events.

Economic Impact: A Boost for Local Tourism and Jobs

The Road National Championships are expected to contribute millions of dollars to Western Australia’s economy, attracting thousands of visitors, including interstate travelers and international tourists. The event provides a vital economic boost, benefiting local businesses in tourism, hospitality, and retail sectors. Hotels, restaurants, and shops in Perth will see increased traffic, while the influx of competitors and spectators will create short-term jobs, from event staffing to service industries, supporting the community.

The event is also aligned with the Cook Government’s economic diversification strategy, which aims to bolster Western Australia’s tourism sector by attracting major international and national sporting events. By securing the 2026 Road National Championships, the state strengthens its reputation as a premier sports tourism destination, encouraging the growth of the events industry and fostering long-term economic benefits.

Prominent Cyclists Competing for National Titles

The 2026 Road National Championships will showcase some of the biggest names in Australian cycling and will undoubtedly draw even more attention to the sporting tourism sector. Ben O’Connor, a two-time Tour de France stage winner, Luke Durbridge, the defending national road race champion, Luke Plapp, a multiple-time national champion and time trial titleholder, and Ruby Roseman Gannon, an Olympian and Commonwealth Games representative, are among the athletes set to compete in the prestigious event. Their participation will ensure a high level of competition, further boosting the event’s appeal to both cycling fans and tourists alike.

The event will feature a variety of races, allowing competitors to demonstrate their versatility across multiple formats. The Gran Fondo, a mass participation event, will also allow amateur cyclists to compete alongside the pros, adding to the event’s appeal to a broader audience, both locally and internationally. This inclusivity makes the 2026 Championships a perfect blend of elite competition and mass participation, creating opportunities for fans and tourists to engage with the sport in different ways.

Long-Term Impact on Western Australia’s Sports Tourism

According to Dr. Tony Buti, the Acting Tourism Minister for Western Australia, the Road National Championships are a key part of the state’s broader strategy to establish Western Australia as a premier sports tourism hub. By hosting major events like the Road National Championships, the state is building a year-round events calendar, designed to attract visitors throughout the year, rather than just during the peak holiday seasons. This strategy not only supports the local tourism sector but also creates jobs in the events industry, hospitality, and retail sectors.

The 2026 Championships contribute to Western Australia’s growing status as a global destination for sports tourism, with the live broadcasts bringing international attention to the region. This event adds to the appeal of Perth as a world-class destination for sports enthusiasts and adventure travelers, reinforcing the city’s reputation for hosting major events that drive tourism and contribute to the economy.

Encouraging Visitors to Explore Perth and Beyond

With the 2026 Road National Championships serving as a catalyst for sports tourism, officials are encouraging visitors to explore Perth and the broader Western Australia region. Perth’s world-class beaches, scenic natural landscapes, and vibrant cultural attractions offer something for every traveler. Tourists attending the event are encouraged to stay longer and experience Western Australia’s tourism regions, such as Margaret River, Rottnest Island, and the Bunbury Dolphin Discovery Centre.

The event’s timing also complements Western Australia’s seasonal tourism offerings, with visitors able to enjoy a diverse range of activities alongside the cycling championships. From beach activities to wine tours, nature walks, and wildlife encounters, the region provides ample opportunities for travelers to extend their stay and fully immerse themselves in all that Western Australia has to offer.

Conclusion: A Milestone for Perth and Sports Tourism

The 2026 Road National Championships are a significant event for Perth, Western Australia, and sports tourism in general. With top-tier athletes competing for national titles, the event is set to showcase Perth’s iconic landscapes and world-class facilities to a global audience. Beyond the excitement of the races, the event will provide a vital economic boost to local businesses, create jobs, and strengthen Perth’s position as a global destination for sports tourism. As Western Australia continues to build on its reputation as a premier sports event hub, the 2026 Championships will play an essential role in driving both tourism and economic diversification for the region.