SISU Punainen 2026 – A Vuelta-Inspired Test of Pure Climbing Grit

In August/September 2026, SISU Racing launches its boldest challenge yet: SISU Punainen, a Vuelta-inspired, seven-stage race series built for riders who thrive when the road tilts skyward. Set entirely in Watopia, this inaugural edition is unapologetically brutal, beautifully relentless, and designed for the mountain goats of the virtual peloton.

Just like the Vuelta, SISU Punainen rewards courage, consistency, and climbing prowess. With punchy hills, long grinders, tactical stages, and a summit finish queen stage, this is a race where every watt counts—and where legends are born. The crown jewel? Power to the Tower, delivering nearly 1,500 meters of elevation gain and a decisive final showdown.

The Stages

Stage 1 – Hilly Route, WATOPIA (Individual Time Trial)

The battle begins against the clock. Short, sharp climbs and rolling terrain demand pacing perfection from the very first pedal stroke. No drafting, no hiding—just you, your legs, and the road. A true test of early form that can set the tone for the entire race.

Stage 2 – Mayan San Remo, Watopia

A deceptively demanding stage blending flowing roads with late climbing pressure. Positioning and patience are key as riders balance conserving energy with staying alert for decisive moves. Expect aggressive racing as contenders begin to show their intent.

Stage 3 – Three Little Sisters, Watopia

Punchy climbs come in quick succession, forcing repeated accelerations and punishing hesitation. This stage favors riders who can recover fast and attack hard. The GC picture starts to sharpen as cracks begin to appear.

Stage 4 – Climbers Gambit, Watopia

The name says it all. Long climbs and sustained gradients invite bold attacks and strategic risks. This is a stage where climbers can go all-in—and where overconfidence can be costly. A true mid-race turning point.

Stage 5 – Big Loop, Watopia

Endurance meets tactics on Watopia’s iconic circuit. With varied terrain and constant pressure, this stage rewards smart racing and strong teams. It’s a chance to defend, regroup, or ambush rivals before the final mountain tests.

Stage 6 – Mountain 8, Watopia

Classic climbing drama. Two major ascents shape a stage that demands both strength and restraint. Fatigue is now a constant companion, and every climb feels longer than the last. GC contenders must stay sharp—or risk everything unraveling.

Stage 7 – Power to the Tower, Watopia (Queen Stage)

The ultimate showdown. Nearly 1,500 meters of climbing culminate in a relentless ascent to the tower. There’s nowhere to hide, no second chances. This is where SISU Punainen is won—or lost—and where the strongest climber earns their place in history.

If you live for long climbs, decisive attacks, and hard-earned victories, SISU Punainen 2026 is your race. Sharpen your climbing legs. Embrace the suffering.

Power to the Tower awaits.

Individual and Team General Classification (GC)

There are no time bonuses; the GC is determined solely by the cumulative time a rider and team (the fastest two riders in each stage) take to complete all seven stages.

UPGRADE INFORMATION

Riders who upgrade during the first six stages will be classified in their higher grade. This is a manual process and can take up to 12 hours following the event. Riders who upgrade in Stage 7 will not be re-classified.

further INFORMATION

Open events using Zwift’s Racing Score with separate results for Men and Women.
Each event is a mass start with all riders visible on the course.
TT bikes are mandatory for the iTT. Draft will be disabled.
Z Power and riders without heart rate data will be excluded from the results.
A rider's best time will count if they race the same discipline in multiple zones.
To be included in the GC riders must have a Zwiftpower profile.
Team GC will be based on each team’s fastest three riders.

For more information, and results, visit sisu.racing/pinkki.

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