ACU rider James Shanes has secured an impressive bronze medal in the 2026 European Individual Grass Track Championship, completing a strong international campaign with a place on the continental podium.
The 2026 European Individual Grass Track Championship reached its spectacular conclusion on 29 August at Aduard in the Netherlands, with around 2,200 spectators turning out to watch some of Europe’s leading grass track riders battle for the European crown.
Shanes entered the decisive meeting carrying considerable confidence after winning the Championship Challenge at Bielefeld, Germany, in May. The British rider produced a superb performance at Bielefeld, scoring a maximum 20 points to finish ahead of Jacob Bukhave and Andrew Appleton.
That form continued at Aduard, where Shanes once again established himself among the leading riders throughout the meeting. Consistent performances in the qualifying heats saw him progress through to the decisive stages and secure his place in the A Final.
With the European title on the line, Shanes lined up alongside a host of international stars, including reigning FIM World Long Track Champion Zach Wajtknecht and defending European Champion Kenneth Kruse Hansen.
However, it was home favourite Romano Hummel who proved unbeatable on the day.
Hummel delivered a dominant performance in front of the Dutch crowd, remaining unbeaten throughout the meeting before completing his perfect afternoon with victory in the A Final to claim the 2026 European Individual Grass Track Championship.
Fellow Dutchman Dave Meijerink took silver, while
James Shanes produced a superb ride to secure the bronze medal and a place on the European Championship podium.
The result caps an excellent championship campaign for Shanes. After taking maximum points at the Bielefeld Challenge earlier in the season, the British rider has now added a European Championship bronze medal to his international achievements, underlining his position among the leading grass track riders competing under an ACU licence.
For Shanes, the bronze medal represents a fitting reward for his consistency across the 2026 European Championship campaign and ensures that Great Britain features on the continental podium.
The 2026 European Individual Grass Track Championship concludes with Romano Hummel taking the European title, Dave Meijerink claiming silver and
ACU rider James Shanes securing a well-deserved bronze medal following an impressive season of international competition.