Red On Sports, organisers of The Gralloch, have launched Merciless Gravel: a new gravel cycling event set in Messenia, Greece.
The inaugural edition of Merciless Gravel will take place from 6-9 November 2025 in the breathtaking region of Messenia, Greece, with its base in the coastal city of Kalamata.
It is the first event to be unveiled in what Red On Sports say will be the Merciless Gravel Series: a programme of international gravel events set in "iconic, soul stirring locations".
"Merciless Gravel will bring the same world-class experience, rider-first philosophy, and unforgettable atmosphere that have made The Gralloch one of Europe's premier gravel events—this time set against the stunning backdrop of the Peloponnese," say Red On Sports.
"Riders will take on a 109km course winding through ancient olive groves, remote valleys, historic landmarks such as Ancient Messini and the Arcadian Gate, and finishing beside the Mediterranean Sea."
The event will feature an Elite/Pro race, Masters Age Group categories, and a non-competitive Challenge Ride, offering something for every level of rider.
"We're incredibly excited to take our one-of-a-kind gravel event experience abroad and launch Merciless Gravel in such an extraordinary location," commented Maximilian Wussler, Co-Founder of Red On Sports.
"Our mission has always been to create unforgettable, rider-focused experiences - and now we have the opportunity to bring that to the global stage. Messenia is a gravel paradise waiting to be discovered, and we can't wait to share it with our growing community."
Malcolm Smith, Director of Red On Sports and Race Director of Merciless Gravel, added: "The route we've created in Messenia is truly phenomenal - gritty, scenic, and completely unique. Riders will pass through ancient sites, along wild gravel tracks, and across landscapes that feel untouched by time.
"The gravel riding potential in this part of Greece is nothing short of world-class, and yet it's almost completely undiscovered. That's what makes Merciless Gravel so special - we're opening the door to something new."
A Gravel Holiday, Redefined
To help riders make the most of their experience, Red On Sports has partnered with Neilson's Messini Beach Club to offer exclusive week-long holiday packages designed around the event. From 2-9 November 2025, participants can enjoy beachfront accommodation, guided rideouts, cultural excursions, locally sourced meals, and full logistical support - including airport transfers from Athens.
The package is perfect for riders looking to combine race-day adrenaline with a truly relaxing Mediterranean getaway - ideal for solo travellers, groups, or those bringing family and friends along for the ride.
The event is being organised in close partnership with regional and local authorities, who are committed to showcasing the Peloponnese as a leading destination for outdoor sports, tourism, and sustainable development.
Dimitris Ptochos, Regional Governor of the Peloponnese, said: "We are proud to welcome Merciless Gravel to the Peloponnese - a destination that offers some of the most stunning and diverse cycling terrain in Europe. This international event reflects our strong commitment to outdoor sports, tourism, and sustainable development. We are thrilled to host both Greek and international athletes in what promises to be an unforgettable gravel event experience. As part of our strategic efforts through VisitPeloponnese we actively support initiatives that highlight the Peloponnese as a premier destination for authentic, outdoor experiences and we fully support Red On Sports in bringing this bold new event to life in Messenia."
Thanasis Vassilopoulos, Mayor of Kalamata, added: "We are honoured to welcome Merciless Gravel and the global gravel cycling community to Kalamata. This event is a unique opportunity to showcase the natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality of our city. Hosting such a prestigious international event brings both economic and cultural benefits to our region, and we look forward to sharing our spectacular landscapes and vibrant spirit with riders from around the world."
The first of many?
Red On Sports say Merciless Gravel will be more than a one-day race - it will be a "multi-day festival of gravel riding, cultural experiences, and beachfront celebrations."
Riders can expect guided rides, local food, panel talks, entertainment, and an epic after party at the Messini Beach Club.
And from what we're hearing, Messenia is just the start. "Merciless Gravel is being developed as a global series of unforgettable gravel events, each hosted in an iconic, soul-stirring location," confirm Red On Sports.
"From ancient landscapes to remote wilderness, every edition will deliver a unique blend of challenge, culture, and adventure - all with the same rider-first approach and high-level organisation.
"Messenia marks the beginning of this journey. A full season of Merciless Gravel events will be unveiled later this year, launching across Europe and beyond from 2026. Expect bold routes, breathtaking backdrops, and the uncompromising spirit that defines every Red On Sports event. This is gravel without borders - and your next adventure could be anywhere."
Sounds like Messenia is just the beginning of an epic gravel odyssey...
For more information and to register, visit www.mercilessgravel.com.
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