Kigali to Host Historic UCI Road World Championships in 2025

For the first time in its 103-year history, the UCI Road World Championships will be held on African soil, as Kigali, Rwanda, prepares to host the prestigious event from September 21 to 28, 2025. This landmark occasion not only highlights Rwanda's emergence as a global sports destination but also underscores Africa's growing prominence in the world of professional cycling.

The championships will feature 13 events over eight days, encompassing individual and team competitions across junior, under-23, and elite categories for both men and women. The elite men's road race is particularly noteworthy, covering 267.5 kilometers with an elevation gain of 5,475 meters, making it one of the most demanding courses in the event's history. Similarly, the elite women's road race will span 164.6 kilometers with an elevation gain of 3,350 meters. Time trial routes will commence at BK Arena and conclude at the Kigali Convention Centre, with distances varying across categories. The challenging terrain, combined with Kigali's high altitude of approximately 1,567 meters, is expected to significantly influence race dynamics and outcomes.

The championships will attract a host of world-class cyclists. Belgium's Remco Evenepoel is aiming for his third consecutive men's time trial title, while Slovenia's Tadej Pogačar is a favorite for the demanding men's road race. Other prominent participants include Chloe Dygert, Filippo Ganna, and Anna Henderson in the time trials, and Pauline Ferrand-Prévot, Demi Vollering, and Ben Healy in the road races. Notably, Mathieu van der Poel and Lotte Kopecky will be absent from the event.

In response to safety concerns, the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) has mandated the use of GPS trackers on all participating bicycles. This initiative aims to provide real-time location data, facilitating prompt responses in case of accidents. The decision follows the tragic death of Swiss cyclist Muriel Furrer during the 2024 World Championships in Zurich, where she could not be located in time after an accident. The GPS system was trialed during the Women's Tour de Romandie in August 2025, where five teams initially resisted participation due to the GPS requirement. However, its use will be compulsory during the Kigali championships.

The event is anticipated to draw significant global attention, with 38 out of the 110 participating countries hailing from Africa. This underscores the continent's growing prominence in the global cycling community and highlights the sport's expanding reach.

Great Britain has announced a 25-rider squad for the championships, led by Tom Pidcock and Oscar Onley in the elite men's events, and Anna Henderson in the elite time trial. Notably, Britain will not field a team in the elite women's road race for the first time in over 30 years, shifting focus to the newly introduced under-23 women's road race. This strategic decision reflects a commitment to developing emerging talent.

Rwanda's selection as the host nation showcases its growing reputation as a global destination for sports and tourism. The country has been preparing its infrastructure to deliver a world-class event, with Kigali's modern facilities, including the Kigali International Airport and top-tier conference venues, already suited for hosting large international gatherings. The event is expected to provide a major economic boost, with thousands of international visitors anticipated. Culturally, hosting the championships highlights Africa's growing presence in international sports and provides a platform to celebrate African cycling talent.

The weather in Kigali during the championships is expected to be warm, with temperatures ranging from 81°F (27°C) to 85°F (30°C). However, air quality is projected to be very unhealthy during the initial days, which could impact both athletes and spectators. Additionally, there is a possibility of thunderstorms later in the week, potentially affecting race conditions.

As the global cycling community converges on Kigali, the 2025 UCI Road World Championships are poised to be a historic event, celebrating athletic excellence and fostering the growth of cycling across Africa and beyond.