Hard Enduro World Ranking for 2026 initiated by Erzbergrodeo & Romaniacs

Two of the biggest names in Extreme Enduro—Red Bull Erzbergrodeo and Red Bull Romaniacs—are joining forces to launch the Hard Enduro World Ranking (HEWR) in 2026, a global points system designed to bring riders, organizers, and partners together under one transparent, merit-based framework.

The move follows their decision not to join the newly re-formed FIM Hard Enduro World Championship in 2025. Instead of sitting on the sidelines, event founders Karl Katoch (Erzbergrodeo) and Martin Freinademetz (Romaniacs) set out to build an alternative scoring model that recognizes the full spectrum of Hard/Extreme Enduro—from grassroots to elite—and gives young riders a clear path to be seen.

Why a world ranking—and why now?

Hard Enduro’s roots run deep: from Roof of Africa 50 years ago, to the Gilles Lalay Classic, to Erzbergrodeo putting Extreme Enduro on the global map 30 years ago, and Romaniacs blasting the sport worldwide since 2004. Efforts to unite events aren’t new (see WESS in 2018 and the FIM HEWC in 2021), but 2025’s turbulent restart left questions around clarity and direction. HEWR aims to reset the compass.

Martin Freinademetz: “Hard Enduro has developed globally over the last few decades… Previous world championship formats have focused only on the highest-level competitions and tended to overlook positive developments in the junior markets. With the Hard Enduro World Ranking, we want to showcase the diversity of the sport and… support, bundle, and promote junior racing events and thus the next generation of Hard Enduro riders.”

How HEWR will work (ATP/WTA-style)

Starting in 2026, riders will earn world ranking points across participating events throughout the season. The goal: a transparent, global comparison of performance—open to established pros and up-and-comers alike.

Events will be categorized (think “Supreme” down to “Hobby”) using objective criteria. Points scale with category, and events can move up as they grow.

Karl Katoch: “Before awarding world ranking points… the individual races must first be categorized according to specific quality criteria. Details such as the number of top riders participating, the nationality mix, infrastructure for spectators, media reach, prize distribution, and number of race days are used to transparently divide events… This scoring system allows organizers and their participants to move up to the next higher category at any time – and thus gain experience, competence, and reach.”

At a glance: event categorization inputs

• Depth of field (top riders present) & international rider mix
• Spectator infrastructure & safety standards
• Media coverage and broadcast/social reach
• Prize purse/awards structure
• Race format & duration (number of days)

Alignment with riders (WERA) and FIM

The HEWR welcomes the newly founded WERA – World Enduro Riders Association, created by stars like Alfredo Gomez – President, Mario Roman – Vice President, Billy Bolt – Secretary, Manuel Lettenbichler – Spokesperson to strengthen the rider voice in a fast-growing global scene.

“Transparent communication between Hard Enduro organizers and top athletes is important for the continued growth of our sport. We therefore welcome WERA with open arms!” — Katoch & Freinademetz

“We invite WERA members to contribute their opinions and expertise to the selection of HEWR races.” — Karl Katoch
“We are also keen to establish further cooperation with the FIM… We see the Hard Enduro World Ranking as a supplement to the FIM World Championship, not as a competing event.”