Sibiu, Romania. Monday 27 July - The city of Sibiu was buzzing today as the Opening Ceremony officially marked the start of the 2026 Red Bull Romaniacs. The “UNSTOPPABLE” EDITION 23 is now well and truly a GO!
The Nations Parade saw hundreds upon hundreds of motorcycles of every size, shape and brand take to the streets in a wonderful procession through the city centre and passing by historical monuments with riders waving colourful flags representing 57 nations and being greeted by cheering crowds.
Nations Parade through Sibiu city centre
The infamous Prolog track on Bulevardul Corneliu Coposu, was the main attraction for the convoy of riders who were keen to see the Gold Class competitors let loose for a 10 minute DEMOmaniacs Prolog test run, offering a first glimpse of the challenges that await.
For the first time, the Adventure Ultimate Class riders were given the opportunity to test the unmodified Prolog track, giving them a unique chance to experience the same obstacles and challenges as the Enduro competitors which would also help them decide on which lines they would pick in the qualifiers.
Prolog mastermind Andy Fazekas is an expert in the field of Prolog design and creation of unique obstacles, some replicating natural obstructions encountered out in the wilderness others created to maximise the “show” for the thousands of spectators who look forward to attending the In-City Prolog.
The “UNSTOPPABLE” EDITION 23 Prolog has 19 obstacles, which flow into each other in close proximity this year. There is a heavy focus on logs which feature in almost every obstacle as well as a mix of rocks, tires of all sizes, numerous ramps and gaps for air time, a wall ride, concrete barriers, water and even excavator buckets are featured.
In this Prolog timing will be critical with the ramps and gaps and trying to maintain good flow and rhythm. The total length is 700 meters per lap, plenty of chicken lines offering an easier route, but this is where competitors will lose precious time and the risky lines delivering greater reward in the end.
The Adventure Ultimate Class were first up on the DEMOmaniacs, having 10 minutes to put their bikes and themselves to the test on the Prolog track. It is easy to see how the consequence of getting it wrong on a big multi cylinder bike is so much riskier than on the lighter enduro bike. Competitors navigated their way through the different line options experimenting for the real showdown in tomorrow's Prolog Finals.
Gold Class were given a 10 minute DEMOmaniacs test run. Competitors used this as an opportunity to test all the line options, experimenting with different technical elements knowing that line choices can quickly disappear into a bike mayhem. This valuable prerun allows these expert level riders to explore the Prolog at a slower pace, while assessing the obstacles and focusing on their technique in the hope of being able to gain an advantage for the battle that lies ahead.
Gold Class DEMOmaniacs
The riders presentation featured Martin Freinademetz introducing Mani Lettenbichler (DEU, KTM) 6 time Red Bull Romaniacs winner, Mitch Brightmore (GBR) a contender for the podium this year and in fourth position in the World Hard Enduro Ranking, Teo Kabakchiev (BGR, Sherco) three previous podiums, yet to score the victory, Mario Roman (ESP, CFMoto) who has been on the podium five times and has now crossed over to the Adventure Ultimate Class this year. Sam Sunderland (GBR, Triumph) who won the Adventure Lite Class in 2025 and has returned to take on the new Adventure Core Class and Pol Tarrés (ESP, Yamaha Ténéré) who won the Adventure Ultimate in 2025.
The riders Meet and Greet was hugely popular amongst fans of all ages who lined up to meet and gather autographs from the world's elite and popular riders.
Riders Presentation with Sam Sunderland (GBR)
All classes will compete in the qualification rounds of the Prolog on Tuesday 28 July. The Prolog Finals will be live streamed with LEATT LIVEmaniacs starting at 17:00 hours EEST (East Europe summer time).
Prolog results determine the start positions for Offroad Day 1 and are as follows:
Podium place 3 becomes the first competitor to leave the offroad start.
Podium place 2 becomes the second.
Podium place 1 becomes the third.
LIVE transmission of the Event Opening ceremony can be watched on REPLAY for all the fans worldwide throughout different time zones.
Photo credits: Mihai Traian, Ciprian Pop, Tibi Hila, Dumitru Dragos
Press Release created by: Susan Mould
Media Team
Red Bull Romaniacs