Rwanda assures readiness to host historic 2025 UCI Road World Championships

Local riders and foreign cyclists train on the routes to be used during the 2025 UCI Road World Championships in Kigali, on Sunday, September 14. (Photo: Olivier Mugwiza via Rwanda Times)

By XINHUA
Saturday, September 20, 2025

Founded in 1900 in Paris, the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) is the global governing body of cycling. It promotes cycling as a sport, leisure activity, and sustainable mode of transport.

Rwandan officials on Friday reaffirmed the country's full readiness to host the 2025 UCI Road World Championships from September 21 to 28 in the country's capital, Kigali - marking the first time the prestigious cycling event will take place on African soil.

"We can confidently confirm that we are ready to host this championship, with everything already in place - from infrastructure, team activation, and prepared hotels, to hospitality and communication. All of these elements have been implemented, and the results are visible today, ensuring that everything will run smoothly," Nelly Mukazayire, Rwanda's Minister of Sports, said at a press conference here on Friday.

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She described the event as both a privilege and a responsibility for Rwanda. "It is a great source of pride, but also a challenge, because we must ensure that we deliver at the expected standard, as is duly required of us as Rwanda."

According to Mukazayire, the focus now is on paying close attention to details and ensuring consistent follow-up until all tasks are fully completed.

"From the preparation phase through implementation and into evaluation, every step is being carefully monitored," she emphasised.

She explained that Rwanda is working in close partnership with the UCI, whose extensive experience provides valuable guidance. As this is the first time the championship is being hosted in Africa-and in Rwanda in particular-collaboration has been key to managing every aspect of the competition.

Rwanda Police Spokesperson Boniface Rutikanga said: "As far as safety is concerned, I am confident in saying that the National Police have put in place the required resources and capabilities, which have been effectively executed throughout the entire period of riding. Everything is well, safe, and fine for everyone."

He added that security preparations include barriers installed to UCI standards and technical checks on all vehicles and motorcycles involved in the race. A 24/7 command post has been established at the Kigali Convention Centre to track rider movements and monitor activities along the race routes.

"There is a system that tracks every rider, and another system to monitor everything happening alongside the race," Rutikanga explained, adding that the command post will ensure real-time coordination.

Rwanda Development Board (RDB) Chief Tourism Officer Irene Murerwa underscored the role of the private sector, particularly in hospitality and accommodation. Hotels have been prepared under a system of appointed leads, each supported by a task force to ensure readiness and fair pricing.

"From the very beginning of planning, we involved the private sector. We requested prices and accommodation services, and after back-and-forth negotiations, the process was transparent and open," she said. "Therefore, it is unlikely that someone would suddenly change their prices."

Founded in 1900 in Paris, the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) is the global governing body of cycling. It promotes cycling as a sport, leisure activity, and sustainable mode of transport.

The UCI manages and promotes eight cycling disciplines: road, track, mountain bike, BMX Racing, BMX Freestyle, cyclo-cross, trials, and indoor cycling. Five of these are featured in the Olympic Games programme, two in the Paralympic Games, and four in the Youth Olympic Games.