Seven stages, 691 kilometres and more than 8,000 metres of climbing – Gravel Burn was a fitting way for The Grip to round off its season, taking the team deep into the South African backcountry for a week of racing that delivered two stage victories and a string of strong performances from Mattia De Marchi, Eddy Le Huitouze and Jordy Bouts.

The team made an immediate impression on the opening stage from Graaff-Reinet to Blaauwater. Over 90 kilometres, Mattia De Marchi took the win, with Eddy Le Huitouze finishing eighth and Jordy Bouts close behind in 11th. It was an emphatic start, putting them right at the front of the race and in the leader's jersey.

Stage 2 brought a tougher day. The 105-kilometre loop around Blaauwater saw Mattia finish 51st, while Jordy and Eddy crossed the line in 187th and 188th respectively, with a technical problem disrupting Eddy's race. But the team was back in the mix the following day, and in some style.

The run from Blaauwater to Merino – at 137 kilometres the race’s longest and toughest day – produced the team’s second stage victory. This time it was Eddy who took the win, with Jordy just behind in third. Mattia finished 31st, making it another big day for The Grip and putting two riders on the stage podium.

The team came together again on the road to Shamwari, with Eddy leading the charge in seventh, Mattia just one place behind and Jordy close behind in 11th. The final loop around Shamwari was a tougher finish, with Jordy 49th, Mattia 50th and Eddy 54th as the seven-day race drew to a close. No late flourish, but two stage wins and a week of hard racing gave The Grip plenty to take home.

Two stage wins, a third-place finish and multiple top-ten results made for a memorable final outing. Gravel Burn tested the team across changing terrain, distances and race situations, but The Grip leaves South Africa with plenty to show for the effort.

The Grip burns bright at the end of the season – we can’t wait until 2027. See you then!