Destination Romania
The International GS Trophy 2026 returns to Europe – right into a country that seems tailor-made for a true off-road adventure: Romania. Here, spectacular nature, rugged terrain, and deeply rooted culture come together. The BMW Motorrad Int. GS Trophy will traverse a landscape in late summer 2026 that is both challenging for riders and emotionally touching – with mountains, forests, rivers, and historical backdrops that seem to be from another time.
Technical terrain and untamed nature
Romania offers an impressive variety of landscapes that make the off-road adventure unforgettable. The Carpathians, with their narrow forest trails, rocky paths, and eroded gravel roads, demand riding skill and precision. However, the gentle hills and plateaus also present their own riding challenges, while the vast, fertile plains and picturesque Danube Delta offer unique experiences.
A country for explorers
”The BMW R 12 G/S, the Competition Bike 2026, will showcase its capabilities here. Power, control, and precision are crucial – especially when loose surfaces, rough terrain, or changing conditions pose high demands. This is what defines its character.
From cool forests to crisp mountain air
From cool forests to crisp mountain air
The dense forests of Romania are breathtaking, growing in some areas so jungle-like that the paths feel like green tunnels. Light filters through the thick canopy in stripes. These sections provide an almost meditative contrast to the open mountain passages.
The wide view of the land
Away from the dense vegetation, expansive green landscapes unfold, where sheep, donkeys, horses, and goats roam freely, while the babbling of rivers in the background conveys a sense of freedom and connection to the earth. These animals are not only part of the picturesque scenery but also a living testament to everyday rural life in Romania. At the end of the day, as the sun slowly sets behind the green hills, the delicious sheep and goat cheese of the land reminds one of the surprising encounters of the day.
Optimal climate for long riding stages
Romania’s temperate continental climate offers ideal conditions for multi-day off-road routes in late summer. Days remain pleasantly warm – even at higher altitudes – while evenings bring a welcome coolness. The weather is usually stable during this time – just right for demanding riding stages and long days in the saddle. However, when it rains, dry paths turn into challenging muddy tracks, and small rivers become technically difficult water crossings – perfect for off-road enthusiasts seeking adventure.
Culture meets history – time travel on two wheels
Culture meets history – time travel on two wheels
Amidst pristine landscapes, one finds places rich in history. In rural areas, you encounter fortified churches, abandoned monasteries, and villages where time seems to stand still. But it’s not just the history that impresses – it’s also the encounter with the Romanian way of life: warm, tradition-conscious, and hospitable. The local cuisine is hearty and down-to-earth: Sarmale – stuffed cabbage rolls – Mămăligă – polenta – and savory meat dishes not only satisfy hunger but also the need for warmth and authenticity.
A country made for explorers
A country made for explorers
Romania is diverse, challenging, and unpredictable – in the best sense. It offers everything that an event like the Int. GS Trophy demands: rugged terrain, scenic diversity, cultural depth, and a friendly atmosphere. With its pristine mountain regions, lonely forests, endless tracks, and rich traditions, Romania is not just an impressive host country – it provides a backdrop for true adventures on two wheel.
How can I participate?
Before they can go on this adventure, the competitors must have passed the national qualifier rounds as the best in their category and met the participation requirements. National qualifiers take place in: Australia, China, Germany, India, Japan, South Korea, and Ukraine.
Anyone who is not a permanent resident of these countries can register for the International Qualifier. For in total 9 men’s teams and 6 women’s teams, the journey can finally begin.
