Rwanda takes centrestage with first UCI Road World Championships in Africa

From kids to pros, families to fans, the streets came alive with joy, color, and cycling spirit as the Social Ride brought the community together ahead of the 2025 UCI Road World Championships, which begins today, in Kigali. 

 

Rwanda continues its history of creating sporting landmarks in the African continent as the first ever Union Cycliste Internationale Championship begins in Kigali, this morning, in the event’s 103-year history.

From September 21 through 28, the Rwandan capital, Kigali, takes centrestage with junior, U23, and elite athletes to the “land of a thousand hills” to compete for the world title.  

The UCI Road World Championships are the annual world championships for bicycle road racing organized by the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI).

This historic decision reflects not only Rwanda’s growing significance in the cycling world but also the nation’s remarkable journey of transformation and progress.

Rwanda’s hosting is seen as an opportunity to showcase the country to the world; highlighting its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and hospitality as well as inspire younger generations of African riders and positioning Rwanda as a significant cycling destination.

In addition, it will align the event with Rwanda’s commitment to eco-tourism and responsible travel.

 

Readiness

Rwanda on Friday reiterated its readiness to raise the bar in the hosting of the 2025 UCI Road World Championship.

Young boy admiring a Cyclist Kigali. 

 

Speaking at a press conference, Rwanda’s Minister of Sports, Nelly Mukazayire, said:

“We can confidently confirm that we are ready to host this championship, with everything already in place – from infrastructure, team activation, and prepared hotels, to hospitality and communication. All of these elements have been implemented, and the results are visible today, ensuring that everything will run smoothly.”

Rwanda and Cycling

Cycling holds a special place in Rwanda’s heart, with the bicycle serving as an essential tool of everyday life for many Rwandans.

From navigating the challenging terrain of the “Land of a Thousand Hills” to transporting goods and commuting to work, bicycles play a vital role in Rwandan culture and society. Rwanda aims to become a continental hub for sports, and hosting the 2025 UCI Road World Championships will boost cycling development activities in the country, provide employment to the people, and give an economic boost to the private sector, increasing the contribution of sports to the economy.

Cycling stands as one of the most popular sports in Rwanda. The nation has seen a surge in both recreational and competitive cycling, with the Tour du Rwanda becoming one of Africa’s premier cycling events, growing bigger each year.

Rwanda’s renowned rolling hills offer the perfect terrain to balance difficulty and beauty for cyclists, nurturing a talented local cycling culture while drawing international competitors. The UCI Road World Championships coming to Kigali is a testament to Rwanda’s dedication to the sport and its potential to become a cycling destination of global significance.

Facts & Figures

• 1st ever UCI Road
  World Championships in Africa
• 1st ever official UCI Road World Championships Under23 Women’s race
• Hardest UCI Road World Championships ever with +5400 elevation gain (men elite race)
• 8 competition days
• 124 countries broadcasted
• 330M+ TV-viewers

Images:

@Kigali2025

@UCICyling