In just five days, Rwanda will make history by hosting the 2025 UCI Road World Championships** in Kigali from September 21 to 28. This marks the first time the prestigious cycling event will take place on African soil, underlining Rwanda’s growing prominence in the global sporting arena.
The Kigali circuit has been designed to highlight the country’s unique terrain and city landscape. Each lap stretches 15.1 km, mixing fast flat sections with steep ascents and technical descents.
The centerpiece of the route is the “Wall of Kigali”, a steep cobbled climb in the Nyamirambo neighborhood that promises to be the defining feature of the championships. For the elite men’s road race, the course extends to 267.5 km, including an extra 42.5 km sector, with a total elevation gain of 5,475 meters—making it one of the most demanding World Championships routes in history.
The UCI, together with Rwanda’s Cycling Federation, structured the course to:
– To showcase Africa’s cycling heritage, spotlighting the Mur de Kigali as a global icon.
– Guarantee a selective race, where repeated climbs will separate the strongest riders from the rest.
– Promote Rwanda’s image, as global broadcasts highlight Kigali’s hills, neighborhoods, and cheering fans.
Engage spectators with multiple laps allowing fans to watch the peloton pass again and again.
The event has drawn the sport’s biggest names. Confirmed riders include Tadej Pogačar (Slovenia), Remco Evenepoel (Belgium), and Biniam Girmay (Eritrea). Girmay, a trailblazer for African cycling, described the opportunity to race in Kigali as a “responsibility and an honor” to inspire young riders across the continent.
The United States will send 23 athletes across all categories. In a show of community spirit, a crowdfunding campaign led by former junior world champion Megan Jastrab raised over US$15,000 to ensure four U.S. junior women could compete in competitions.
Team Rwanda has been training intensively in Musanze, determined to use home advantage to leave a mark on the competition. Beyond performance, the team’s presence aims to inspire the next generation of Rwandan cyclists, building on a cycling culture that has rapidly expanded over the past decade.
Temporary road closures will be implemented along the race routes.
All schools in Kigali will remain closed during the week of competition. Alternative routes will be clearly marked to minimize travel disruptions. Fan zones will be set up across the city, giving locals and tourists a chance to experience the atmosphere of a world-class cycling event.
