COMBOYNE’S star mountain biker Luke Meier-Smith is about to take on the world’s best at Red Bull Hardline Tasmania.
Described as the world’s toughest and most progressive downhill event, the invite-only race is being run at the Maydena Bike Park, south-west of Hobart, on 7-8 February.
Meier-Smith, 23, was selected after his first UCI Downhill World Cup win at New York’s Lake Placid in October – a career-best result.
He had already won a second Australian title in March 2025 and the Canadian Open Downhill in Whistler in August.
“Maydena Hardline bound ‘26… thought it’s time I get out of my comfort zone and challenge myself, after watching the last few years,” Meier-Smith shared.
“Keen to see what I can make of it.”
A Red Bull spokesperson said male and female riders are hand-picked for their world-class talent and technique, which are essential for tackling Maydena’s tricky downhill features and huge freeride-style jumps.
The race will feature returning champion Jackson Goldstone, and Gracey Hemstreet, who made history in 2025 as the first to win the Red Bull Hardline women’s category.
The course has undergone a major revamp that takes it back to its downhill racing roots, with a new top section built to test the rider’s technicality at speeds of over 80kmph.
Spectators can get up close to the action with access to the full length of the track.
The 2026 edition marks the 12th year of Red Bull Hardline since its creation in Wales in 2014.
Races will be streamed free on Red Bull TV and YouTube and updates will be posted to @RedBullAU.
Meier-Smith, who spent downtime on his family’s farm in Comboyne after his World Cup win, can be followed on Instagram @luke_ms1/.
By Sue STEPHENSON
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