Elite downhill mountain biker Tahnee Seagrave has ended her World Cup season early as she continues to struggle with injuries sustained during pre-season training.

The 31-year-old had a difficult start to the season, finishing ninth in the finals of the 2026 UCI Downhill World Cup after sustaining an elbow injury during the qualifying stage.

The 12-time World Cup winner was unable to compete in the second World Cup race in Loudenvielle as a result and has now curtailed her campaign.

“It’s been heart-breaking letting go of my dreams for this season after finally building back to my best last year,” Seagrave wrote on Instagram.

“I wanted to show up for my team and my sponsors but honestly speaking we expect podiums, or at least an athlete that is healthy and confident to fight for them.

“Regardless of my situation I always give my best, but pushing on a near-empty tank puts me at a way higher risk of another injury.”

The Llanfyllin-based rider said the decision to break from the World Cup will give her time to recover and target a return to racing for the World Championships in August.

She has not yet won a World Championship title, but finished her 2025 season with a seventh place finish.