Nicole Frain will headline the elite women’s field when the world’s best gravel cyclists descend on Nannup for the 2026 UCI Gravel World Championships in October.

The reigning Oceania champion has confirmed she will race at the historic event on October 10 and 11, with the South West set to host the championships for the first time and become the first venue outside Europe to stage the prestigious event.

Frain enters the championships as one of the favourites after a stellar run of form.

The former Australian road champion finished 2025 as the world’s top-ranked gravel rider and has continued her dominance this season, claiming the inaugural Oceania title before adding three UCI Gravel World Series victories and five top-10 finishes.

The 33-year-old said competing for a rainbow jersey on home turf would make the occasion even more special.

“I think it’s really special to be on home soil,” she said.

“I rode a lot of the course in January to get a feel for it. It’s a very fast circuit but one that can creep up on you through the day.”

The championships will be held on the same course as the popular SEVEN Gravel Race, with more than 80 per cent of the route made up of gravel roads.

Riders will tackle a series of steady climbs throughout the course before facing a decisive final ascent just 3.5km from the finish, setting the stage for dramatic finales.

Frain believes the growing popularity of gravel racing comes from its welcoming atmosphere and adventurous nature.

”Gravel is a new discipline that I think welcomes everyone into the sport,” she said.

“Compared to road you’re much more able to compete individually and this allows many more to have the opportunity.

”I think people also love the community and sense of adventure it brings. Australia has a big community and a growing calendar, and this only supports it further.”