Kigali, Rwanda’s vibrant capital, is set to make history in 2025 as the first African city to host the prestigious UCI Road World Championships. From September 21 to September 28, Kigali will transform into a global stage for elite cyclists to compete, taking on the challenging terrain of the “Land of a Thousand Hills.”
This event is not only a monumental moment for Rwanda, but for Africa as a whole a continent eager to showcase its readiness to host world-class sporting events.
The roads of Kigali, with their steep climbs and high altitudes, promise to challenge riders in ways they’ve never experienced before. Both elite men and women will push their limits as they navigate through iconic spots like Mur Kigali and Mont Kigali, a testament to Rwanda’s natural beauty and demanding landscapes.
The introduction of a Women Under 23 race for the first time in the competition’s history reflects Rwanda’s dedication to gender equality and its ongoing development as a sporting nation.
For Rwandans, cycling has long been part of daily life. Bicycles serve not only as a mode of transport across the hilly terrain but also as a symbol of endurance and resilience. Events like the Tour du Rwanda have already cemented the country’s love for the sport, attracting international competitors and uniting the local community.
The 2025 UCI Road World Championships will build on this legacy, further embedding cycling into Rwanda’s cultural and economic landscape.
Rwanda’s Minister of Sports, Richard Nyirishema, emphasized the significance of this event for the country’s development. “Sport has played a vital role in Rwanda’s development over the past thirty years, driving our economic growth and fostering strong sporting ecosystems,” he said.
Nyirishema believes this event will leave a lasting legacy in Rwanda, helping to further grow its international reputation as a hub for major sporting events.
UCI President David Lappartient’s vision of bringing the World Championships to Africa will soon become a reality, and there’s no better place than Rwanda to host this milestone event.
As the anticipation builds, the streets of Kigali are already abuzz with excitement, with local fans eagerly awaiting the chance to witness cycling history unfold on African soil for the first time.
For Africa, the 2025 UCI Road World Championships represent an opportunity to demonstrate its capacity to host major international competitions and to inspire a new generation of athletes.
Kigali is ready to take the global cycling community to new heights, cementing its place in sporting history and fostering a lasting impact on the development of cycling across the continent.
As September 2025 draws closer, one thing is certain: the world’s best cyclists will soon experience the unique magic of Kigali and the warmth of its people. Rwanda’s journey to the world stage is just beginning, and the 2025 UCI Road World Championships will mark a defining chapter in its sporting legacy.
src: UCI
