The Merciless Gravel race is a brand new gravel cycling event launching in Messenia, Greece, with its inaugural 2025 edition taking place from November 6th – 9th. Organised by Red On Sports, the team behind the UCI Gravel World Series event The Gralloch, the event has been positioned as a multi-day festival of gravel riding, cultural experiences, and beachfront celebrations.

Based in the coastal city of Kalamata, the race will explore the breathtaking region of Messenia, Peloponnese, known for its ancient olive groves, remote valleys, and historic landmarks.

Riders will tackle a course 109km / 1664m of climbing course that winds through diverse landscapes, including ancient sites like Ancient Messini and the Arcadian Gate, before finishing beside the Mediterranean Sea. The route is described as “gritty, scenic, and completely unique.”

Categories include an Elite/Pro race, Masters Age Group categories and a non-competitive Challenge Ride.

Accommodation & Logistics

Kalamata isn’t reachable by train from Athens – buses with KTEL bus which takes 3.5 hours. Horizon Blu is a boutique hotel in Kalamata, with road bike hire available through grcycling.com.

Enter at mercilessgravel.com