For the first time in history, the world’s most prestigious cycling event — the UCI Road World Championships 2025 — took place in Africa, hosted by Rwanda’s capital, Kigali, from September 21 to 28. This landmark event has firmly placed Africa on the global cycling map.

In the 125-year history of the UCI Championships, this is the first-ever edition held in Africa, marking a monumental milestone. The races were broadcast live by over a hundred international television networks, while thousands of spectators lined the streets of Kigali to witness the thrilling competition up close.

While Europe, the Americas, and Asia have hosted the championship multiple times, Africa had long remained absent from the roster. Rwanda, however, proved that it is both ready and capable of staging world-class sporting events.

A record 108 countries participated this year, including 38 African nations, with nearly 1,000 riders competing across various categories. The event, reminiscent of the renowned Tour du Rwanda, showcased remarkable enthusiasm, organization, and discipline among local fans.

The UCI has now initiated long-term plans to build a sustainable cycling culture in Rwanda. New regional development centers have been established in Musanze, Bugesera, and Rwamagana, designed to train athletes, coaches, and technicians.

UCI President David Lappartient praised the event, saying,  “Rwanda’s track was one of the most challenging and spectacular routes in the history of the UCI Championships.”

Among the highlights of this year’s event were the Under-23 Women’s and Junior races, which drew global attention for their speed, strategy, and intensity. Rwanda’s commitment to gender equality in sports was evident — the men’s and women’s competitions were treated with equal recognition and prestige, setting a new standard for the cycling world.

The closing ceremony was graced by Rwandan President Paul Kagame, Prince Albert II of Monaco, and UCI President David Lappartient. Their presence underscored not only the prestige of the event but also the growing global significance of cycling.

By successfully hosting UCI 2025, Rwanda demonstrated how leadership, vision, and citizen participation can elevate a nation onto the world stage.
International media outlets have since dubbed Rwanda an “emerging hub for global sports and events.”

For Rwanda’s youth, this championship was more than a race — it was a symbol of hope. They now believe that one day, they too can compete among the world’s best cyclists.

Ultimately, UCI 2025 was not just a sporting event; it was Africa’s moment of emergence — a celebration of new faces, new nations, and new champions, proving that the future of cycling is truly global.