The announcement was made during the 2021 UCI Road World Championships in Leuven, Belgium. September 24, 2021.
Rwanda’s selection showcases its growing reputation as a global destination for sports, tourism, and major events. Hosting the 2025 UCI Road World championships will make Rwanda the first African nation to welcome this prestigious event, highlighting its breathtaking landscapes and renowned hospitality.
The Engagement Day also focused on Rwanda’s preparations for 2025, with updates on the event schedule and infrastructure improvements.
As the host of the 2025 UCI Road World Championships, Rwanda, specifically, Kigali, is already preparing for this landmark event in cycling history. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:
Event Overview
The 2025 UCI Road World Championships in Kigali will mark the first time the event is held on the African continent, a historic milestone for global cycling. Rwanda’s well-established reputation for hosting events like the Tour du Rwanda was instrumental in securing the bid. The championship is expected to take place in September 2025, though the specific dates are yet to be confirmed.
Cycling Routes
Kigali, known for its picturesque and hilly terrain, will provide a challenging and scenic setting for the races. The routes are expected to feature:
City Center Routes: Laps through Kigali’s urban core, renowned for steep climbs and winding streets, will test riders’ endurance and tactical abilities.
Mountainous Terrain: Some stages will likely extend into Kigali’s outskirts, showcasing Rwanda’s lush, hilly landscape. Elevations reaching over 1,800 meters will add a unique level of difficulty to the race.
Iconic Landmarks: Riders are expected to pass near landmarks like the Kigali Convention Centre and Mount Kigali, blending the country’s cultural and scenic beauty with the sport.
Event Categories
The championships will feature a range of race categories, including:
Elite Men’s and Women’s Road Race
Elite Men’s and Women’s Time Trial
Under-23 Men’s and Women’s Races
Junior Men’s and Women’s Races
Mixed Team Time Trial Relay
Each category encompasses both road races and time trials, with thousands of elite riders from around the world competing.
Participation of World-Class Teams
The UCI Road World Championships attract the sport’s top riders and teams, including participants from cycling powerhouse nations such as:
• France
• Belgium
• Italy
• Spain
• Netherlands
• Australia
• Colombia
• Eritrea (Africa’s leading cycling nation)
Event Schedule
Though the official schedule is yet to be released, the event is expected to follow a traditional week-long format:
Day 1–2: Individual time trials (elite, U23, and junior categories)
Day 3: Mixed team time trial relay
Day 4–6: Junior and U23 road races
Day 7–8: Elite Road races (men’s and women’s)
Economic and Cultural Impact
Rwanda anticipates a major economic boost from hosting the championships, with thousands of international visitors expected in Kigali. The event will spotlight Rwanda’s rapid growth as a prime tourist destination, showcasing its natural beauty, vibrant culture, and hospitality. Local authorities are working on infrastructure enhancements to accommodate the surge of tourists.
Culturally, Rwanda’s role as host highlights Africa’s growing presence in international sports. The event will provide a platform to celebrate African cycling talent and boost the sport’s popularity across the continent.
Infrastructure and Logistical Preparations
Rwanda has been preparing its infrastructure to deliver a world-class event. Kigali’s modern facilities, including the Kigali International Airport and top-tier conference venues, are already suited for hosting large international gatherings. A comprehensive security plan is in place to ensure the safety of athletes, officials, and spectators.
Legacy
The legacy of the 2025 UCI Road World Championships will extend beyond the event itself. Rwanda hopes to inspire a new generation of African cyclists, encouraging the sport’s growth across the continent. Investments in cycling infrastructure, athlete development programs, and tourism are expected to expand in the wake of the championship, cementing Rwanda’s place on the global sports stage.
Conclusion
The 2025 UCI Road World Championships in Kigali will be a landmark event, not only for Rwanda but also for the entire cycling world. A combination of challenging routes, top-tier teams, and Rwanda’s welcoming atmosphere will ensure an unforgettable experience for competitors and spectators alike.
Attendees heard about the significance of the championships, not only for Rwanda but also for the global cycling community, emphasizing the impact it will have on sports, tourism, and local development.
The Minister of Sport, commented on the decision to bring the championships to Africa, praising Rwanda’s commitment to sports development and the inspiration it offers to young cyclists across the continent. “Rwanda has demonstrated remarkable dedication to nurturing athletic talent, particularly in cycling. Hosting the UCI championships not only highlights this commitment but also serves as a beacon of inspiration for young cyclists throughout Africa, showcasing the heights they can achieve with perseverance and support,” they said.
Rwanda’s cycling federation FERWACY called on cycling fans, volunteers, and local businesses to participate actively in the lead-up to the event. Local businesses were also encouraged to seize the opportunity for economic growth, as the championships are expected to provide a major boost.
Cycling fans worldwide were urged to get involved, whether by attending as spectators, volunteering, or participating in local events leading up to the 2025 championships.
Rwanda’s local cycling clubs, sports organizations, and athletic federations expressed excitement, with the President of FERWACY, calling it a chance for regional talent to compete on the global stage but from home. “This is a monumental opportunity for our athletes. Hosting the UCI championships in Rwanda allows our local talent to shine internationally right from their backyard, inspiring countless young cyclists and elevating the profile of African cycling on the world stage,” they said.
