A father-son partnership built around passion, dedication and a love for BMX racing is preparing for one of the biggest challenges in the sport, as Jacob and Matt French set their sights on competing at the 2026 UCI BMX Racing World Championships.
The duo from Tasmania has earned the opportunity to race against some of the best BMX competitors from around the world, representing not only themselves but also their local BMX community. Their journey highlights the strong family connections that exist within BMX racing, where parents and children often train, compete and support each other throughout their sporting careers.
BMX racing is a sport built on speed, skill and precision, requiring riders to navigate challenging tracks filled with jumps, steep turns and high-pressure racing situations. Competitors must combine physical fitness with technical ability and mental focus to succeed at an international level.
The 2026 UCI BMX Racing World Championships are being held in Brisbane, Queensland, bringing thousands of riders and supporters from around the world to Australia. The championship event will feature elite riders, under-23 competitors and junior athletes competing for world titles across multiple categories.
For Jacob and Matt French, reaching the world championships represents years of commitment and countless hours spent training on BMX tracks. Their qualification is a major achievement and reflects the dedication required to compete at the highest level of the sport.
Family involvement is one of BMX racing’s unique strengths. Many riders begin the sport at a young age with support from parents, and over time those relationships can develop into shared sporting journeys. Father-son combinations such as Jacob and Matt demonstrate how BMX can bring generations together through competition, teamwork and a shared goal.
The Australian BMX community has continued to grow, with riders from clubs across the country qualifying for international competition. The 2026 championships are expected to feature a strong Australian presence, with athletes from different states earning places through national qualifying events.
Beyond competition results, events like the BMX World Championships provide opportunities for athletes to gain experience, meet international competitors and inspire younger riders who hope to follow a similar pathway.
For Tasmania’s BMX community, the participation of Jacob and Matt French represents a proud moment. Their journey shows how local sporting clubs can help develop athletes and create opportunities for riders to compete on a global stage.
The father-son duo will enter the championships focused on enjoying the experience, representing their community and testing themselves against international competition. While BMX racing is unpredictable and races can change in seconds, reaching the world championships itself is already a significant accomplishment.
Their story also highlights the importance of family support in sport. Behind every athlete competing internationally are hours of preparation, encouragement from loved ones and the commitment of local communities that help make those opportunities possible.
As Brisbane prepares to welcome BMX riders from around the world, Jacob and Matt French will carry the pride of Tasmania with them. Their participation is a celebration of sporting passion, family connection and the determination required to chase a world championship dream.
