The 2026 Tour du Rwanda kicked off in thrilling fashion today, as Itamar Einhorn of NSN Development Team sprinted to victory on Stage 1. Covering 173.6 km from Rukomo to Rwamagana, Einhorn crossed the line in 4:00:05, seizing the early yellow jersey and thrilling cycling fans.
The stage started aggressively, with a two-man breakaway featuring Henrique Avancini (Localiza Meoo / Swift Pro Cycling Team and Miguel Heidemann (Rembe | rad-net Team pushing hard up front. Rain showers between Kayonza District, and Lake Muhazi made the roads slick, adding drama to the stage, but fans lined the route, cheering on riders despite the wet conditions.
Back in the peloton, a pair of Eritrean riders set a steady pace, while home favorite Eric Nkundabera (Team Rwanda) used his experience to maintain a strong position. Riders strategically grabbed refreshments and instructions from team cars, preparing for the crucial final kilometers.
As the race entered the final 25 km, the gap from the breakaway narrowed, and the peloton prepared for a bunch sprint. In the last 15 km, Avancini and Heidemann were still giving it everything up front, but it was the well-timed move from Itamar Einhorn that made the difference. With power and precision, he surged ahead to take the win and secure the first yellow jersey of the race. Muñoz Hodei (Sourdal Quick Step Devo Team) finished second ahead of Girmay Mewael (Eritrean and Istanbul Continental Team). 2025 Tour du Rwanda winner Mulubrhan Henok finished fourth.
Stage 2, from Nyamata to Huye, promises more hills and tactical battles. The GC is still wide open, and fans can expect plenty of excitement as riders compete for the yellow jersey in the coming stages. Stay tuned for updates as the Tour du Rwanda continues!
Stage 1 — Top 10 Finishers
1 Itamar Einhorn
2 Muñoz Hodei
3 Girmay Mewael
4 Mulubrhan Henok
5 van Rees Christiaan
6 Cuylits Mauro
7 Guatibonza Jonathan
10 Bomfim de Almeida Luiz Fernando
Itamar Einhorn
A breakaway featuring Henrique Swift Pro Cycling Team and Miguel Heidemann Rembe | rad-net Team pushing hard up front on Stage1
