Vilnius to Host 2025 European MTB Orienteering Championships

From 14 to 18 May 2025, Vilnius will welcome Europe’s top mountain bike orienteers for the European Mountain Bike Orienteering Championships (EMTBOC). Over 250 elite athletes from 20 European nations will compete in Sprint, Middle Distance, Mass Start/Long Distance, and Mixed Relay/Relay. Alongside the elite races, the Junior and Youth Championships will provide a stage for emerging talents to showcase their skills.

As a European Green Capital, Vilnius is the perfect host for an event that celebrates sport in nature while respecting the environment. The competition centre will be located on an expansive meadow overlooking Vilnius’ bypass, serving as a central hub that connects urban accessibility with the city's green spaces. The courses will take riders through forests, parks, and sustainable trail networks, ensuring an exciting challenge while showcasing Vilnius' commitment to preserving natural landscapes.

This environmentally friendly event aligns with Vilnius’ sustainability goals—promoting eco-conscious sports that minimise environmental impact by relying on natural terrain instead of built infrastructure. The city’s extensive cycling network makes it an ideal location for an event where sport and sustainability go hand in hand.

Lithuanian mountain bike orienteers are making their mark internationally. In 2023, Gabrielė Andrašiūnienė and Ignas Ambrazas won European silver, with Andrašiūnienė also claiming a world title. Jonas Maišelis and Ambrazas added world silver and bronze, reinforcing Lithuania’s rising strength in the sport. This video highlights their achievements and training, offering inspiration and a glimpse into Lithuania’s potential on the global stage. 

The Lithuanian Orienteering Federation and MTBO Events are committed to delivering a world-class championship that combines elite competition with sustainability. By hosting this event, Vilnius reinforces its reputation as a city that supports an active, environmentally conscious lifestyle while inspiring the next generation of mountain bike orienteers.

This championship will strengthen Vilnius' position as a hub for green initiatives and international sporting events. Taking place in natural surroundings and utilizing existing sustainable infrastructure, it will leave a lasting positive impact on both the orienteering community and the environment.