On Wednesday, May 6, the official contract was signed between La Leyenda Island Series and the Aruba Tourism Authority (A.T.A.), marking a significant milestone in the preparation and execution of the inaugural La Leyenda Island Series Aruba. The signing ceremony included Ronella Croes, CEO of A.T.A., alongside Brian Patrick Murphy-O’Neill of La Leyenda Island Series, Jeanuar de Palm of The Caribbean Trail Legends Foundation, and other key representatives.
The event is scheduled to take place from October 9 to 11, 2026, marking the international cycling series’ debut on the island. This three-day event is part of the global ‘La Leyenda Island’ series and is organized in collaboration with A.T.A., reinforcing Aruba’s position as a premier destination for wellness and high-quality sports tourism with lasting community value.
A Showcase of Aruba’s Natural Landscape The first edition will feature a multi-stage format designed to highlight Aruba’s diverse scenery, spanning the coastline, the island’s interior, and mixed-terrain routes. The race will utilize the mountain bike trail network recently developed and enhanced through A.T.A. investments. This integration puts local infrastructure at the heart of the experience while promoting responsible use and long-term trail conservation.
The event aligns with the growing trend of wellness tourism, combining physical activity and health with a deep connection to nature. Sustainability is a core pillar of the operation, with an emphasis on low-impact logistics and environmental stewardship. Furthermore, the event aims to attract international visitors interested in multi-day sporting experiences, encouraging longer stays and a meaningful connection with the destination.
Community Integration Local involvement is central to the event’s mission. The organization is supported by the Caribbean Trail Legends Foundation Aruba, working in tandem with local cycling clubs, partners, and volunteers. This collaborative approach ensures community participation and a shared sense of ownership, strengthening Aruba’s cycling culture and sporting infrastructure.
“With La Leyenda Island Series Aruba 2026, we continue to fortify Aruba as a destination that places wellness, sports, and sustainability at the center of its tourism offering,” stated Ronella Croes, CEO of A.T.A. “This event not only attracts international visitors but also creates value for our community through local collaboration and responsible use of infrastructure.”
Brian Patrick Murphy-O’Neill, Founder of La Leyenda Race, added: “La Leyenda Island Series Aruba is more than just a race. It is the realization of a shared dream. We are cultivating a global family based on the fundamental values of mountain biking, country by country. Aruba offers exceptional terrain and a strong cycling culture, making it the perfect home for our next edition. Our goal has never been to be the biggest race in the world, but simply the most loved.”
Registration officially opens on Friday, May 8, 2026. For more information, visit www.leyendaseries.com/aruba.
