‍

MALI LOŠINJ, CROATIA — A long-awaited moment in the ongoing expansion of global off-road triathlon is set to take place with the debut of XTERRA Croatia Mali Lošinj on May 10-11, 2025. A unique island in the heart of the Adriatic will welcome cross-triathletes, mountain bikers and trail runners of all levels of experience to discover its historic trails and crystal-clear waters.

‍

As the sixth stop of the 2025 XTERRA EMEA Tour and the ninth stop on the 2025 XTERRA Youth Tour, this inaugural event offers limited and highly coveted qualifying slots to the 2025 XTERRA World Championship and XTERRA Youth World Championship in Trentino, Italy. More than just a racing weekend, XTERRA Croatia Mali Lošinj will blend adrenaline, adventure, and Mediterranean allure, for competitors and families alike to discover an island full of cultural richness, and the challenge of pure off-road competition.

‍

‍

The Magnificence of Mali Lošinj

‍

Mali Lošinj, often referred to as "The Island of Vitality," has evolved through centuries from when Illyrian tribes first settled in this Adriatic enclave, leaving traces of their presence in ancient hillforts and burial sites. Under Venetian rule and later the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Mali Lošinj became a key shipbuilding hub, attracting travelers, traders and sailors with its scenic and sheltered bays. By the late 19th century, it gained prominence for its mild climate, aromatic vegetation, and restorative coastal atmosphere.

‍

In May, mild temperatures of 18-20°C (65-68°F) and extended daylight hours bring out the island’s natural character. More than 1,000 native plant species thrive in its pine forests, while dolphins find refuge in the surrounding waters. Centuries-old traditions continue through local festivals, crafts, and culinary practices. This layered history, set against a backdrop of rolling terrain, stone walls, and the clear Adriatic, provides a setting that is both historically significant and ecologically diverse.

‍

XTERRA Hall of Fame inductee Helena Karásková Erbenová (CZE), after testing out this adventure playground, stated, "Mali Lošinj is simply beautiful. A town with beautiful small streets, lots of flowers everywhere, lots of bays, beautiful clear water and suddenly you are outside the city in pure nature. The roads are lined with old stone walls. Pure splendor."

‍

‍

Six Course Challenge

‍

On May 10, 2025, XTERRA Croatia Mali Lošinj opens the weekend with four races that highlight emerging talent and inclusive participation. The Super Sprint Triathlon (Swim 400M, Bike 8K, Run 2.5K) is open exclusively to Youth A (14–15 years) and serves as a key XTERRA Youth Tour qualifier. The Sprint Triathlon (Swim 750M, Bike 14K, Run 5.5K) is reserved for Youth B and Junior categories (16–19 years) to also compete for a portion of the 30 available 2025 XTERRA Youth World Championship slots. Additionally, the MTB race (Bike 39.2K) offers an adrenaline-packed ride through the island’s rugged landscapes, and the Kids Runs (0.5–1K) for ages 8-13 introduce younger entrants to the XTERRA Community in a supportive environment.

‍

As the action shifts to May 11, attention turns to the iconic Full Distance Triathlon (Swim 1.5K, Bike 28K, Run 10.3K) along the bay of Uvala Čikat, where elite triathletes and age groupers compete across crystal-clear waters, forested trails, and scenic coastal paths awarding 28 XTERRA World Championship slots. The 10.4K Trail Run at Veli Žal Beach offers its own brand of challenge, guiding competitors along pebbled shores and through fragrant woodland routes that reflect the island’s cultural and natural heritage.

‍

‍

Builders and Leaders Behind XTERRA Croatia Mali Lošinj

‍

Ninoslav Vidović, Executive Director of Sales & Marketing, Lošinj Hotels & Villas:

‍

"The island of Lošinj is an ideal destination for an outdoor lifestyle that combines sea, land, culture and thousand-year-old history, with top-notch gastronomy and the hospitality of Lošinj Hotels & Villas. In my opinion, XTERRA is the best outdoor event concept in the world and its link with Lošinj is a 'match made in heaven' itself. With this event, we want to add new value to our guests not only during the XTERRA event, but also throughout the year through new cycling and hiking trails as well as branding them, having all-day activities promoting outdoor culture, and connecting with our luxury hotels and top gastronomy."

‍

Ivan Zrinušić, XTERRA Croatia Mali Lošinj Race Director:

‍

"We are extremely proud to bring such a strong brand to one of the most beautiful locations on the Adriatic Sea. We are excited to finally turn the plans into reality with the help of our partners from the Tourist Board of Mali Lošinj and Lošinj Hotels & Villas, who greatly contributed to the logistical organization of the event. The organization of XTERRA Croatia Mali Lošinj, on an island full of beautiful views and connection with nature, is a real dream come true. From wild trails to the crystal-clear Adriatic Sea, the location provides a perfect balance between physical challenge and the charm of getting to know this location in a unique and atypical way."

‍

J-D Cousens, XTERRA VP Operations & Marketing:

‍

"After the tremendous work put in for the unrealized 2020 event, we are thrilled to see this vision finally come to life. Thanks to the incredible local support, XTERRA will debut in Mali Lošinj, a stunning part of Croatia—perfectly suited to embody the spirit of adventure and resilience that our community values."

‍

Kostas Koumargialis, EMEA Marketing & Business Development Director:

‍

"We're excited to bring XTERRA to the beautiful island of Mali Lošinj, Croatia. With its crystal-clear waters, challenging trails, and breathtaking Mediterranean landscapes, it’s an ideal setting to celebrate the adventure and camaraderie that define XTERRA. This event will be an unforgettable experience for athletes and families."

‍

‍

Mark Down Mali Lošinj

‍

XTERRA Croatia is set to make its long-awaited debut in Mali Lošinj in May 2025, after its initial 2020 launch was postponed due to unforeseen global events. This premier off-road challenge will feature multiple disciplines and varied course distances, providing elite athletes, age group competitors, and youth participants the opportunity to earn XTERRA World Championship qualifications. Detailed course outlines, youth eligibility criteria, and essential logistics such as travel guidance, lodging recommendations, and gear requirements are all accessible now.

‍

Prospective competitors and spectators are encouraged to review the official schedule, familiarize themselves with local conditions, and secure their entries before capacity is reached. For up-to-date information, official race rules, and online registration, please visit the official event page.

‍