Leipzig. Germany will not participate in the 2026 International Six Days of Enduro (ISDE) in Portugal, marking a significant setback for the nation’s enduro program, especially as this year represents the 100th edition of the prestigious competition.
High Effort, Low Response
The decision stems from the substantial organizational and financial burdens placed on club teams, leading to insufficient participation to field both club and trophy teams.
The news came as a surprise to Celine Heistermann, an enduro rider from Regis-Breitingen and a veteran of the Six Days. “It came as a bit of a surprise to me. As always, there was a query about who wanted to ride – apparently to check whether it was even possible to take part,” she explained.
The primary obstacle is the considerable effort required to fund participation, encompassing entry fees, logistics, and on-site support, all shouldered by the club teams themselves. “It takes a lot of effort to manage all of this,” Heistermann said, noting that the low number of applicants ultimately led to the cancellation of the trophy teams’ involvement.
The logistical challenges are particularly acute when the event is held in Portugal. “Three days of travel, three days of return – you have to do that first in terms of time, money and physical strength,” the 26-year-old rider pointed out. When participation numbers are low, distributing costs effectively becomes increasingly difficult.
Several Weeks of Vacation for the Hobby
Heistermann emphasized the often-underestimated commitment of volunteer work. “The entire team works on a voluntary basis. People take several weeks’ vacation, drive the truck, set it up and take it down again – that’s not a given.” Despite this, the Enduro Sport Association remains active in Germany, supporting events like the Vintage Trophy and domestic enduro competitions.
For Heistermann, the cancellation represents more than just a logistical issue. “In many countries, the Six Days are considered the Olympics of enduro sport. You represent your country – that’s the highest rank.” Germany’s absence from the centennial edition serves as a symbolic signal, highlighting structural differences compared to other nations. “In other nations, the world’s best compete in the Six Days. In Germany it is more complicated – often because of costs, effort and a lack of security.” German enduro relies heavily on the dedication of individuals and their willingness to volunteer their time and resources.
Open Questions for the Future
Attention is now turning to 2027, when the Six Days will be held in England. Shorter distances could potentially ease the logistical burden. However, Heistermann raised a critical question: “What does this suspension of the 100th Six Days mean in the long term for enduro sport in Germany?” The decision casts a shadow over the racing calendar and raises concerns about the sport’s long-term viability, particularly in a year that should have been a celebration.
The decision to forgo participation in the 2026 Six Days is not an isolated incident. Setbacks are also occurring at the regional level, with the Saxon Offroad Cup cancelled for this year.
Too Few Active Members in the Clubs
Organizers of the Saxon Offroad Cup cited structural problems as the reason for the cancellation, including only four available events for the 2026 season. They also noted the loss of suitable training areas and a lack of active participation in club work, with a small number of members shouldering the majority of organizational responsibilities.
The Offroad Cup aims to support regional clubs, promote young talent, and provide affordable motorsport opportunities. “Without active members, the clubs die – and without clubs, motorsport dies,” a statement from the organizers read. They remain optimistic about a positive development in 2027.
The cancellation of the Next Generation Motocross junior series further underscores the challenges facing German motorsport. These three cancellations – at the international, regional, and junior levels – collectively raise questions about the sustainability of current motorsport structures in Germany.
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