Illinois State Criterium Championship 2026
Illinois State Criterium Championship in Edwardsville — a night-race criterium with big prize purses drawing the state's fastest Cat 1-3 road racers.
The vibe
Night race, big purse, fast corners
The Edwardsville Rotary Criterium doubles as the 2026 Illinois State Criterium Championship, making it the most significant crit on the Illinois racing calendar. The night-race format sets it apart from the typical afternoon circuit — stadium lights, faster crowds, and a different kind of pressure when you’re chasing state jersey points under the glow. Open to Categories 1, 2, and 3 (plus juniors and masters in their respective fields).
Prize purses are substantial for a regional crit, which means the field is competitive. Expect sharp, technical corners and a course that rewards bike handling as much as raw power. If you’re a Cat 3 looking to test yourself against the best in the state, this is the race to target.
Edwardsville is about 25 miles east of St. Louis, making it accessible from both downstate Illinois and the Chicago area. Check the race website for registration, start times by category, and course maps closer to the event.