The Women Riders World Relay (WRWR) is coming back in 2026, and opening up to thousands more than before, thanks to an app. The original relay, which took place in 2019, saw a succession of female motorcyclists all over the world carry a physical baton over 60,000 miles through over 100 countries. The BMF’s own Louise Hillier took part, helping carry the baton from Cornwall to London.

The 2026 WRWR will be different, with a virtual baton based in an app, open to all women riders Hayley Bell, founder of WRWR, told MCN: “We wanted to build a tool that could include everyone. Women bikers have been crying out for a voice, this is the tool to use it. One of our biggest gripes in 2019 was that we had to turn women away. We couldn’t involve inexperienced riders, off-roaders, trials or new riders because it involved high-mileage days, sometimes over 1000 miles.”

She added that each country will have a relay ambassador, who can pass the digital baton on to their compatriots – 70 country ambassadors have signed up so far. “You can’t just sit on your sofa and use it. It’s encouraging women to get into the saddle and connect with new riders while challenging themselves.”

At the BMF, Anna Zee said “ This sounds like a fun way to promote women in motorcycling, wish WRWR all the best in 2026.”

Written by Peter Henshaw

Top image courtesy of Women Riders World Relay