In a historic move, Rwanda is set to host the 2025 Road World Championships, making it the first African nation to host this prestigious event.

Thousands of cyclists and officials from across the globe will head to Rwanda in September 2025, as one of the largest annual road cycling championships kicks off in Kigali.

The Championship is the most prestigious cycling event in the world. It is held every two years. The 2025 championships will surely be a major occasion for Rwanda, by far the biggest sporting event to ever be staged in the country. It will be the first time an African nation will have hosted the event.

The UCI Road World Championships, which is set to run from September 20 to 25, will see a number of world-class cycling races around the streets and highways of Rwanda including time trial and road race events for elite men and women, junior men and women and mixed team (time trial).

Cycling is hugely popular in Rwanda, with a number of riders emerging to compete professionally in Europe in recent years. Tour du Rwanda, the country’s flagship cycling competition has grown from a 2.2 to a 2.1 category race.

This remarkable achievement not only symbolizes Rwanda’s commitment to cycling but also holds significant implications for the nation and the entire African continent. To ensure the event’s success and leave a lasting legacy, several critical factors need to be considered.

The racecourse

Rwanda Cycling Federation made substantial progress in improving the infrastructure, notably raising Tour du Rwanda's status from a 2.2 to a 2.1 category race. To host the Road World Championships successfully, organizers must ensure that the racecourse meets international standards.

This involves road resurfacing, careful route planning, and facilities for both the athletes and spectators. Rwanda’s scenic landscapes offer an opportunity to create a challenging yet visually captivating course that will engage both participants and viewers.

Another key aspect of the event’s success has to be effective promotion and marketing—this involves not only generating local enthusiasm but also attracting a global audience.

Rwanda can leverage its success in hosting the now internationally-recognized Tour du Rwanda to promote the Road World Championships. Engaging in international marketing campaigns, partnering with global cycling associations, and using social media can help create awareness and anticipation.

We may be two years away from the event but awareness must start now (or even yesterday), because, you know what, time flies away so fast that before we know, September 2025 will be upon us.

Rwanda has made strides in nurturing its own cycling talent, and the success of its riders in international races is proof of this effort. For the 2025 Road World Championships, it is crucial to continue developing local riders’ skills and provide them with opportunities to compete at a high level before the event. This will not only increase the chances of Rwandan riders making an impact but also inspire the next generation of African cyclists.

The event’s logistical aspects, such as transportation, accommodation, and security, are vital to its success. Rwanda has improved its infrastructure, but organizers must ensure that these improvements can accommodate the large influx of athletes, teams, and spectators.

Spectator experience

A major aspect of hosting a successful event is the spectator experience. The Road World Championships typically attract a diverse global audience, which Rwanda must be well-prepared for.

To make the event memorable, Rwanda will have to offer a variety of activities and entertainment options beyond just the race itself, catering to the interests of both cycling enthusiasts and casual fans.

Rwanda should view the 2025 Road World Championships as more than a one-time event. The legacy of the event should focus on the long-term growth of cycling in the country and the continent.

Rwanda’s hosting of the World Championships carries profound significance for both the nation and the African continent. It not only puts Rwanda on the global cycling map but also showcases Africa’s potential in the world of competitive cycling.

This achievement highlights Rwanda’s determination to become a sporting destination. Additionally, it underlines Africa’s emergence as a contender in international sports events.

We have already had the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa. Only the Olympics remain to come to Africa. So, with the UCI World Championships coming to Rwanda, and depending on how successful it is, it will be only a matter of time before the continent hosts the Games (Summer Olympics).

Rwandan riders

Despite Rwandan riders’ recent good showing in international competitions and the home advantage, their chances at the 2025 Road World Championships could be minimal, as they will be up against the crème de la crème of world cycling.

Nonetheless, the World Championships provide Rwandan riders with an excellent opportunity to compete at the highest level and gain invaluable experience. While the competition will be fierce, the support of the home crowd and their familiarity with the terrain can provide Rwandan riders with an edge, however slight it may be.

With the right preparations and commitment to their training, they have a good chance of delivering impressive performances and not only making their country proud but also moving it up in the world ranking and cycling map.