Rwanda Hosts UCI Road World Championships

Rwanda is poised to make cycling history as it prepares to host the 2025 UCI Road World Championships in Kigali from September 21 to 28, the first time the prestigious event will be held on the African continent. Rwandan officials, including Minister of Sports Nelly Mukazayire, have confirmed that all preparations are complete, with infrastructure, team activation, hospitality, and communication systems fully in place. The event is seen as both a privilege and a significant responsibility for Rwanda, which aims to deliver the championship at the highest standard.

Security and Logistics

Security has been a top priority, with Rwanda National Police establishing a 24/7 command post at the Kigali Convention Centre to monitor rider movements and ensure safety along the race routes. Police spokesperson Boniface Rutikanga stated that barriers have been installed to UCI standards, and all vehicles and motorcycles involved in the race have undergone technical checks. A sophisticated tracking system will monitor every rider in real time, ensuring immediate response to any incidents.

The private sector has played a crucial role in the preparations, particularly in hospitality and accommodation. According to Rwanda Development Board Chief Tourism Officer Irene Murerwa, hotels have been prepared under a transparent system to ensure fair pricing and readiness. The process involved close collaboration with the private sector from the outset, with clear communication and negotiation to avoid last-minute price changes.

International Participation and Local Impact

The 2025 edition of the UCI Road World Championships will feature eight days of racing, with 13 rainbow jerseys awarded in time trials and road races across junior, under-23, and elite categories. While some national teams, such as the Netherlands and the United States, have reduced their delegations due to travel costs and logistical challenges, the event is expected to be fiercely contested. The absence of defending champions in both the men's and women's elite road races guarantees new names will be added to cycling history.

Rwanda's cycling community and broader public are eagerly anticipating the influx of athletes and fans from around the world. The event is expected to boost tourism and showcase Rwanda's capacity to host major international sporting events. Local cycling figures, such as Adrien Niyonshuti, have expressed pride in Rwanda's role as host and highlighted the significance of the event for the entire African continent.

Technological Innovations and Legacy

A notable innovation for this year's championships is the deployment of GPS rider tracking technology, developed in partnership with the UCI and SafeR. All riders will be equipped with GPS devices to enhance safety, allowing real-time monitoring of position and speed. This system, operated from the World Championships control centre, will enable immediate identification of any unusual situations on the course.

Preparations have also included training camps for nearly 80 young African riders, supported by the UCI World Cycling Centre’s #Africa2025 project. The event is expected to leave a lasting legacy for cycling in Rwanda and across Africa, inspiring a new generation of athletes and strengthening the continent's presence in international cycling.