Sand, Silver, and Six Days of Grit: Team Australia Crowned Vice World Champions at 2026 FIM ISDE in Portugal

SINES, PORTUGAL

Six brutal days through punishing European terrain, relentless mechanical maintenance, and the ultimate test of endurance concluded on the Atlantic coastline, with Team Australia officially crowned 2026 FIM International Six Days Enduro (ISDE) Vice World Champions.

Led by veteran competitor Jessica Gardiner alongside teammates Danielle McDonald and Madi Simpson, the Australian trio stood on the second step of the global podium after navigating one of the most physically and mentally exhausting disciplines in international motorsport.

In a competition defined by self-reliance—where athletes serve as both racers and sole mechanics under strict impound regulations—the Australian contingent held firm across every stage, cheered on by travelling supporters who lined the Portuguese hillsides in green and gold.

The final test came on Day 6 in Sines, trading rocky inland trails for a high-intensity final motocross sprint staged directly on the beach. Gardiner executed a sharp gate drop to emerge second into the opening corners, battling through deep sand ruts and an aggressive pack across the moto to bring her machine home in P5.

The result locked down the overall team podium silverware and marked Gardiner's 14th career ISDE finish.

"The most mentally and physically challenging race of man vs machine," Gardiner noted following the podium ceremony. "We are the riders and the mechanics, we are the team! So proud of our Aussie team. We gave it our all every day, and the Team Australia ISDE crew went above and beyond for us."

 

Gardiner described the coastal circuit as the "hands down best location for a final moto ever," even hinting that a start at the iconic Le Touquet beach race might be on her future radar after tackling the Portuguese sand.

Team Australia's 2026 campaign was supported by Motorcycling Australia, the Australian Enduro Championship, MXstore, BOSS Agriculture, Yamaha JGR Offroad Team, Yamaha Motor Australia, and a dedicated network of domestic and international technical partners.

Primary Statements & Athlete Report: Official race dispatches published by team captain Jessica Gardiner on location in Sines, Portugal.

Photo Credit: Fred Ccy Reporter Photos