LVM Saarland Trofeo

Germany's Top Junior Race

The Saarland Trofeo has been held since 1989 and is considered Germany's most important junior stage race. 2026 marks the 38th edition – with UCI Junior Stage Race status, making it an international top competition for riders in the MU19 category (17- and 18-year-olds). The organizer is the Förderverein Saarland Trofeo, based in Gersheim.

UCI Confirmation and Sporting Level

The UCI Committee in Kigali (Rwanda) has officially confirmed the dates from June 11th to 14th, 2026. This makes the Saarland Trofeo one of the few junior races worldwide officially recognized for international career development. Many current professionals – such as Tony Martin or John Degenkolb – achieved their first international successes here.

Four Days, Five Stages

Five stages will be raced over four days: two longer road stages of 130 and 131 kilometers, a 10-kilometer individual time trial, and two further road races of 75 and 116 kilometers. The stages lead across Saarland and the neighboring Département Moselle in France – cross-border routes are a hallmark of the Trofeo.

Blieskastel as a Stage Town

In 2026, Blieskastel in the Saarpfalz district is one of the central stage towns. The queen stage (Stage 4, Prize of LVM Versicherung) passes through the town and the Bliesgau multiple times: Blieskastel – Biesingen – Erfweiler-Ehlingen – Rubenheim – Herbitzheim – Bliesdalheim – Wolfersheim – Blickweiler. The 14.7-kilometer loop will be completed three times. For spectators, this is a rare opportunity to see a stage multiple times at different points.

Sponsors and Tradition

The stage names tell the story of the sponsors: Saarland RUNDE, Grand Prix de la Moselle, Prize of Autohaus Deckert, Prize of TERRAG, Prize of LVM Versicherung. This mix of regional economy, cross-border commitment, and a central insurance partner (LVM) is unusual – and one reason why the race continues to exist despite the difficult funding situation in junior cycling.

Bliesgau and Cycling

The Bliesgau, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, is known for its rolling hills and intact landscapes – an ideal location for challenging yet scenic race routes. Visitors can combine a sporting experience with a nature experience. Saarpfalz-Touristik provides tourist support for the stage.