KIGALI, Sept. 21 (Xinhua) -- Rwanda launched preparations on Thursday to host the 2025 International Cycling Union (UCI) Road World Championships, scheduled for September 21 to 28, 2025 in the Rwandan capital city of Kigali.
This much-anticipated event is the first of its kind to be hosted on the African continent since its inception in 1921.
"Today marks a major milestone for Rwandan cycling as we prepare to welcome a new world-class race to our country. The cycling world will turn its attention to Kigali for this remarkable event. Our goal is to ensure it becomes an excellent and memorable competition for all participants," said Aurore Mimosa, Rwandan Minister of Sports at the launch event in Kigali.
She added that Rwanda is proud and fully prepared to host the event, and the countdown has officially begun, along with the preparations.
Speaking at the launch, Amina Lanaya, director general at the UCI, praised Rwanda for its efforts in hosting the cycling event and pledged support to ensure its success.
"With just two years to go until the first-ever UCI Road World Championships take place on the African continent in Kigali, Rwanda, I have had such a warm welcome to mark the occasion with people from all key sectors ready to get behind this historic sporting event," she said.
Rwanda, which submitted its application to host the 2025 road cycling worlds in September 2019, emerged victorious after outbidding Morocco in the selection process.
The event will feature a variety of disciplines, including the road race, time trial, individual time trial, and team time trial. The championships are expected to attract over 5,000 cyclists and 20,000 delegates from around the world.
The UCI Road World Championships are the most prestigious cycling event globally, held every two years and serving as a significant test for the world's best cyclists.
The 2025 championships are anticipated to be a major event not only for Rwanda, but also for the entire African continent.
Glasgow hosted the 2023 event, and the 2024 edition will be held in Zurich.
