Tour du Rwanda 2025: A Rain-Soaked Triumph and a Glimpse into Africa’s Cycling Future

The 16th edition of the Tour du Rwanda, held in February 2025, concluded in dramatic fashion as adverse weather conditions forced the cancellation of the final stage with just over 13 kilometers remaining. Despite the unexpected end, the race was hailed as a resounding success, setting the stage for an even bigger event later in the year—the 2025 UCI Road World Championships, which Rwanda is set to host from September 21 to 28. This historic event will mark the first time the prestigious global cycling competition is held on African soil, a testament to Rwanda's growing prominence in the world of cycling.

A Race Against the Elements

The final stage of the Tour du Rwanda 2025 was a short but challenging 61.6-kilometer route in Kigali, featuring three laps of a 15-kilometer circuit. Cyclists faced relentless rain and muddy conditions, which made the roads slippery and treacherous. As the peloton began its final lap, strong winds and thunderstorms forced race officials to halt the event. The UCI Jury President announced the cancellation, citing safety concerns, and the winner was determined based on the General Classification standings from the previous stage.

French cyclist Fabien Doubey of Team TotalEnergies, who had worn the leader’s yellow jersey after Stage 6, was crowned the overall winner. Doubey, 31, secured his first stage race title, finishing just six seconds ahead of 2023 champion Henok Mulubrhan (XDS Astana) and five seconds ahead of Oliver Mattheis (BIKE AID) in third place. The dramatic conclusion underscored the unpredictable nature of cycling and the resilience required to compete at the highest level.

A Prelude to the UCI Road World Championships.

The Tour du Rwanda 2025 served as a critical test run for the UCI Road World Championships, which will take place in Rwanda later this year. The race utilized the same routes that will feature in the global event, providing organizers with valuable insights into logistics, safety, and infrastructure. Nelly Mukazayire, Rwanda’s Minister of Sports, expressed confidence in the country’s readiness, stating, “This confirms that we are more than ready to welcome the world.”

The UCI Road World Championships represent a monumental milestone for Rwanda and African cycling. The event will attract the world’s top cyclists and thousands of spectators, shining a global spotlight on Rwanda’s stunning landscapes and its commitment to becoming a hub for international sports. However, the road to hosting the championships has not been without controversy.

Political Challenges and Misinformation

Rwanda’s hosting of the UCI Road World Championships has been the target of a smear campaign by the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), which has sought to discredit Rwanda’s ability to host the event. Critics have cited security concerns and political tensions in the region as reasons to relocate the race. Rumors even circulated that the UCI had canceled the event and moved it to Switzerland, a claim that was swiftly debunked by the global cycling body.

In a statement, the UCI reaffirmed its commitment to Rwanda, emphasizing that the country “remains entirely safe for tourism and business.” The organization clarified that the conflict in the DRC is localized and does not affect Rwanda’s stability or its capacity to host international events. The UCI’s unwavering support has been a source of pride for Rwanda and a rebuke to those seeking to undermine its achievements.

A Symbol of African Unity and Progress

While the DRC’s campaign has sought to sow division, most African nations have rallied behind Rwanda, celebrating the continent’s opportunity to host a world-class cycling event. The Tour du Rwanda and the upcoming UCI Road World Championships are seen as symbols of African unity and progress, showcasing the region’s potential to organize and excel in global sports.

Rwanda’s success in hosting the Tour du Rwanda, despite the challenges posed by weather and misinformation, has bolstered its reputation as a capable and resilient host. The country’s investment in cycling infrastructure, including the iconic Kigali Convention Center and the challenging mountainous routes, has earned praise from cyclists and fans alike.

Looking Ahead to September 2025

With the Tour du Rwanda concluded, attention now turns to the UCI Road World Championships in September. Rwanda’s government and cycling officials are working tirelessly to ensure that the event is a resounding success. The lessons learned from the Tour du Rwanda, particularly in managing adverse weather conditions and addressing security concerns, will be invaluable in preparing for the global competition.

The UCI Road World Championships will not only be a celebration of cycling but also an opportunity for Rwanda to showcase its culture, hospitality, and scenic beauty to the world. As Nelly Mukazayire aptly put it, “We are ready to welcome the world.”

Conclusion

The Tour du Rwanda 2025 may have ended in a rain-soaked cancellation, but it was a triumph in every other sense. It demonstrated Rwanda’s ability to host world-class cycling events, set the stage for the historic UCI Road World Championships, and reaffirmed the country’s position as a leader in African sports. Despite political challenges and misinformation, Rwanda has emerged stronger and more determined than ever to prove its critics wrong. As the cycling world turns its eyes to Kigali in September, one thing is certain: Rwanda is ready to make history