BikeFest Spain 2026 has successfully concluded its fifth anniversary edition, bringing together riders from across the international live events and entertainment technology community to raise vital funds for Backup Tech.
Taking place from 30 January to 1 February 2026, the three-day challenge saw participants complete a 365km ride from Valencia to Barcelona, finishing outside the South Entrance of Fira Barcelona ahead of the Integrated Systems Europe (ISE) show.
Despite challenging weather conditions, which meant riders were unable to cycle on Day 2 of the route, the event once again demonstrated the resilience, generosity and solidarity of an industry united for a common cause.
Five years of riding for those behind the scenes
Organised by PLASA’s #WeMakeEvents, BikeFest Spain has become a firmly established fixture in the industry calendar. Since its inception in 2022, the event has combined physical challenge, community spirit and charitable fundraising, all in support of technical professionals working behind the scenes across live events, theatre and entertainment.
Reflecting on the five-year milestone, Nicky Greet, Association Director at PLASA, said:
“Reaching five years of BikeFest Spain feels incredibly significant. What started as a bold idea has grown into a much-loved tradition that genuinely makes a difference. The event represents the values of what PLASA’s WeMakeEvents stands for, and every year we see more diversity in our riders.
“Every rider, sponsor and supporter over the past five years has helped strengthen the safety net for our industry through Backup Tech. It’s a powerful reminder of what our community can achieve when it comes together with purpose.”
This year’s ride raised around £40,000, which sees the 2026 edition continuing to build momentum for Backup Tech’s essential financial and wellbeing support services.
Juan Jose Vila CSO Equipson, CEO ELL, PLASA European Representative and BikeFest co-organiser reflects; “When Nicky and I first discussed this idea, I had no idea we would be creating a tradition that has on every level surpassed our expectations. We have all formed incredible bonds with great people over the years who represent the heart of what our industry is all about. Thank you to all involved for the collaboration, including our sponsors.”
This anniversary edition also saw a standout participation from four-time World Champion para-cyclist and three-time Paralympic gold medallist Mathieu Bosredon, who took on the challenge on Ayrton’s behalf. Ayrton is marking its fifth consecutive year sponsoring the event.
For Bosredon, who was the highest gold medal winner for France at the Paris 2024 Paralympic Games, BikeFest Spain gave him an opportunity to reciprocate the support he has often received throughout his career.
“I’ve cycled a lot for myself up until now, but at this stage in my career I think it’s important to give something back,” he says. “I’ve been helped by associations in the past: they bought me bikes and lent support at crucial times. Sometimes, if you don’t have that network of associations to help you along the way, it can be very difficult. I know how important it is, and now I have the chance to give something back, so I’m doing it.”
A growing tradition of industry solidarity
From its origins five years ago as part of the wider BikeFest initiative, BikeFest Spain has evolved into a powerful show of unity across the international live events sector. Each year welcomes a mix of first-time riders and returning participants from manufacturers, rental companies, venues and production teams, all riding for the same cause.
With thanks to our sponsors
BikeFest Spain 2026 was made possible thanks to the generous support of its sponsors, whose continued commitment helps maximise funds raised for Backup Tech and ensures the event can grow year on year.
Headline sponsors:
AVIXA, Ayrton, Clair Global, d&b audiotechnik, Equipson, Integrated Systems Europe, Lights Control Rigging (LCR), PLASA and Wonder Works.
Official sponsors:
Autograph Sound, Unusual Rigging and ROE Visual.
Supporting Backup Tech
As BikeFest Spain enters its next chapter, the event remains a powerful reminder of the strength and generosity of the live events community. Donations and sponsorship continue to play a vital role in enabling Backup Tech to provide meaningful financial and wellbeing support to technical professionals when they need it most.
There’s still time to donate in aid of the 2026 ride to support Backup Tech.
