The streets of Rwanda’s capital are buzzing with excitement as some of the world’s biggest names in cycling have started to arrive for the 2025 UCI Road World Championships, which kick off this Sunday, September 21, with the individual time trials for Elite Women and Elite men.
Here are some of the top contenders for the upcoming UCI Road World Championships who already arrived in Kigali:
Slovenian superstar Tadej Pogačar
Leading the charge is Tadej Pogačar, the Slovenian superstar whose dominance has defined modern cycling. He arrived in the capital, Kigali, on Thursday night.
Fresh from his Tour de France victory in July, his fourth after wins in 2020, 2021, and 2024, Pogačar also comes into Kigali as the reigning 2024 UCI Road World Champion and the Giro d’Italia winner. With nine one-day Monument victories to his name, his presence alone adds glitter to the Kigali peloton.
Two-time UCI world champion Remco Evenepoel
Belgium’s Remco Evenepoel has also landed, carrying the weight of expectation from fans and pundits alike. Still in his mid-20s, Evenepoel’s résumé already reads like that of a veteran: winner of the 2022 Vuelta a España, two-time World Champion in the time trial, Olympic double gold medallist in Paris 2024, and a proven Grand Tour contender with a podium finish at last year’s Tour de France. Known for his versatility and attacking flair, Evenepoel is widely tipped as one of the riders to watch on Rwanda’s hilly circuits.
Mexican sensation Isaac Del Toro
Representing a new generation of talent, Mexican rider Isaac Del Toro has also made his way to Kigali. Del Toro, who races for UAE Team Emirates alongside Pogačar, has enjoyed a breakout season.
The 21-year-old finished second overall and won the Best Young Rider classification at the 2025 Giro d’Italia. He has continued his impressive form, racking up multiple victories in one-day races in the lead-up to the World Championships. His explosive climbing and ability to perform in demanding conditions make him a dark horse for a medal.
Dutch climbing ace Thymen Arensman
Dutch powerhouse Thymen Arensman has also arrived in Kigali. The 25-year-old Ineos Grenadiers rider is having a standout year, with two stage wins at the 2025 Tour de France, where he finished 12th in the general classification. Arensman, who is also an accomplished time trialist, won the Stage 6 time trial and finished second overall at the 2022 Tour de Pologne. The Dutchman will also contest the individual time trial in Kigali, where he will be a strong contender.
Dutch leading lady Demi Vollering
On the women’s side, Dutch star Demi Vollering has joined the growing list of elite arrivals. Vollering is fresh off back-to-back wins at La Vuelta Femenina (2024, 2025) and remains the only rider since 2017 to complete the prestigious “Ardennes Triple.” With major triumphs at the Tour de France Femmes, Strade Bianche, and Itzulia Women, the 28-year-old is expected to be among the strongest contenders for the rainbow jersey in Kigali.
Polish powerhouse Katarzyna Niewiadoma
Another top contender in the women’s field is Poland’s Katarzyna Niewiadoma. The 2024 Tour de France Femmes champion is known for her aggressive climbing style and has a strong track record on punchy, hilly courses similar to those in Kigali. Her recent victories, including her 2024 Tour de France and La Flèche Wallonne wins, make her a formidable threat for the road race title. Having previously earned a bronze medal at the UCI Road World Championships in 2021 and a UCI Gravel World Championship title in 2023, Niewiadoma is a proven performer on the world stage.
