Rad am Ring is one of the pioneers when it comes to cycle races on a motor racing circuit. Numerous other cycle races have followed. The Leipzig-based organiser maximalPULS is bringing a new long-distance format to the Porsche Circuit with the Velofondo 9h11. Where racing cars normally do their laps, cyclists compete against one another in a time-limited race. The number 911 determines several aspects of the event: it sets the maximum number of participants, refers to the 911 car, and specifies the race duration in hours and minutes.
Ronny Winkler, Managing Director of maximalPULS GmbH, explains the motivation behind the event: “What cycling enthusiast wouldn’t want to ride along legendary Formula 1 race sections at least once? With the VELOFONDO 9h11, we’re creating the perfect setting and a cycling event unlike anything the region has seen before: a limited-entry team race on a unique circuit. Sporting competition meets a genuine experience.”
Velofondo 9h11 format
The race is a team competition lasting 9 hours and 11 minutes. 455 teams of two share the work on the circuit. A single WildCard solo rider competes against the teams. The distance covered within the allotted time is what counts. The circuit is a 3.7 km loop. The course, set on the grounds of the Porsche factory in Leipzig, features eleven bends inspired by the world of motorsport.
The entry fee of 269 euros (standard rate) covers a range of services. This includes free refreshments during the race, individual timekeeping for each participant, a personalised race number, a finisher’s medal and a certificate of participation. Also included are a starter pack, changing facilities and medical support. A DJ will be providing entertainment in the finish area. Registration takes place via the event website velofondo9h11.maximalpuls.com.
Race route
A race track has been created on the grounds of the Porsche factory in Leipzig, combining eleven sections of bends from seven countries into a single circuit. The circuit is 3.7 kilometres long in total, twelve metres wide and features six full-throttle sections with six braking points. It meets the requirements for a professional racing circuit and is certified by the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA).
The corners were modelled on the following real-life examples: Suzuka S (Suzuka, Japan), Sunset Bend (Sebring International Raceway, USA), Loews (Circuit de Monaco, Monaco), Victoria Turn (Rio de Janeiro, Brazil), Mobil 1 S (Nürburgring, Germany), Curve di Lesmo (Autodromo Nazionale Monza, Italy), Bus Stop (Spa-Francorchamps, Belgium), Suntory Corner (Shizuoka, Japan) and the Corkscrew (Laguna Seca, USA). These are joined by the Karussell at the Nürburgring and the Parabolica at Monza.
Organisers and Portfolio
maximalPULS GmbH has been organising sporting events in Leipzig for over ten years. Its portfolio includes the SachsenEnergie Leipzig Night Run, the neuseen classics, the Leipzig Run, the Velofondo Bike Festival, the neuseenMan and the Muldelauf. The Velofondo 9h11 adds a long-distance format at a motorsport circuit to the series of events. The inaugural event will take place on Saturday, 18 July 2026, at the Porsche Experience Centre Leipzig.
Kristian Bauer
Editor
