Kigali is set to pause its usual rhythm as the city embraces history, with Rwanda becoming the first African nation to host the prestigious UCI Road World Championships. From September 21 to 28, the capital will transform into the global stage of cycling, welcoming elite riders from across the world in a spectacle that blends sport, culture, and national pride. For Rwanda, the event is more than a race, it is a defining moment in its journey of positioning itself as a hub for international sport.
To guarantee safety and smooth operations, the government has announced an eight-day closure of all schools within Kigali, ensuring that students, cyclists, and the public remain secure during the weeklong contest. Public institutions have also been advised to adopt remote work systems, while private entities capable of virtual operations are strongly encouraged to follow suit. Essential services, however, will remain uninterrupted, preserving a balance between global spectacle and daily life.
The competition itself will showcase Kigali’s unique cityscape, with individual time trials starting from inside BK Arena, a first in the history of world championships, and finishing at the iconic Kigali Convention Centre. Riders will weave through dynamic routes that highlight the city’s vibrant districts, from Kimironko to Gisimenti, before taking on the mixed relay and the demanding road races that close the week. Every kilometer promises to test endurance while putting Rwanda’s modern infrastructure on full display.
Organizers have gone the extra mile to enhance the rider and fan experience. Thirty-five road humps have been removed to ensure fluid racing, and specially designated Fan Zones will provide safe and lively gathering points for supporters. At the same time, the “Tembera U Rwanda” campaign invites visitors to explore Rwanda’s cultural and natural attractions, turning the championship into both a sporting and tourism celebration.
The grand finale will bring the drama of cycling to new heights, as riders tackle punishing climbs, daring descents, and the iconic cobblestones of Kabindi before the ultimate showdown on Norvège Hill and Mille de Kigali. For Rwanda, the race is not just about medals, it is about leaving a legacy. When the peloton rolls through Kigali’s streets, it will symbolize Africa’s growing presence in global sport and showcase a nation ready to inspire the world.
