The 17th edition of the Tour du Rwanda, set to take place from February 23 to March 2, 2025, promises to be more than just a race—it’s a prelude to history. As the cycling world gears up for the first-ever UCI Road World Championships on African soil in September 2025, this year’s Tour will double as a rehearsal for the global event.
The route, unveiled today in Kigali, incorporates key sections of the World Championships circuit, offering riders and spectators a preview of the high-stakes competition to come. Notably, the prologue will mirror the time trial course, while the final stage will feature part of the road race circuit, setting the stage for a dramatic finale.
The race will host an impressive lineup of teams, blending Africa’s brightest talents with Europe’s elite. Cycling powerhouses Eritrea, Ethiopia, South Africa, and host nation Rwanda will be represented by stars like Biniam Girmay and Joseph Areruya, both of whom launched their careers on Rwanda’s challenging terrain. UCI Continental teams, including Java-Inovotec, Mays Stars, and Amani, will also vie for victory alongside top-tier professional squads such as Israel-Premier Tech, UAE Team Emirates, and TotalEnergies—many of whom are veterans of the Tour de France, Giro d’Italia, and Vuelta a España.
Freddy Kamuzinzi, Managing Director of the race, emphasized the importance of this unique mix. “We value the balance between African riders and major European teams. The Tour du Rwanda is not just a competition; it’s a platform to elevate African cycling by exposing young riders to the global elite,” he said.
Known for its grueling climbs, the 2025 Tour will again challenge riders with the punishing ascent of Mount Kigali. With a route designed to test endurance and strategy, the race is set to be one of the toughest on the early-season calendar, underscoring its reputation as a proving ground for future champions.
As anticipation builds for the World Championships, the Tour du Rwanda 2025 stands poised to showcase not only Africa’s cycling talent but also its readiness to host a world-class event.
