LTdL 2026: Gunung Jerai Route Set to Become ‘Mini Genting’

KUALA LUMPUR: The Gunung Jerai climb at the 2026 Le Tour de Langkawi (LTdL) is expected to be one of the race’s main attractions, with local authorities and the Kedah Cycling Association aiming to turn the location into a “mini Genting”.

LTdL Chief Operating Officer Emir Abdul Jalal said a dedicated fan zone would be set up around the Gunung Jerai climbing section, allowing spectators to watch the riders up close as they battle their way to the finish line.

“They want to make the most of this opportunity because they know the atmosphere at Genting is extraordinary, so why not create the same in Jerai? There will be supporters from the foot of the mountain, and as the riders climb towards the finish, the designated areas are expected to be packed with spectators,” he said.

Emir added that all 20 teams confirmed for the race are expected to field at least two climbing specialists to tackle the mountainous routes.

Among the teams expected to attract attention is TotalEnergies, which will field six climbers, including Geoffrey Bouchard, a former winner of the mountains classification at the 2021 Giro d’Italia and 2019 Vuelta a España, as well as Jordan Jegat.

“The battle for the King of the Mountains jersey is expected to be intense, with major climbs at Gunung Jerai, Cameron Highlands via Tapah and Genting Highlands.

“To make the competition even more challenging for pure climbers, organisers have increased the points awarded for the Hors Catégorie (HC) climbs from 15 to 25 points, making maximum points at Gunung Jerai, Cameron Highlands and Genting Highlands extremely valuable,” he said.

LTdL 2026, scheduled to take place from Sept 27 to Oct 4, will mark the 30th edition of the race, featuring eight stages covering a total distance of 1,285.5 kilometres.

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