With fewer than 50 days to go, Rwanda is finalizing preparations to host the 2025 UCI Road World Championships in Kigali, marking the first time the prestigious cycling event will be staged on African soil.
The championship will run from September 21 to 28, 2025, transforming the vibrant capital into the epicenter of global competitive cycling.
The week-long event will see the world’s top cyclists competing across challenging city routes, offering fans a rare opportunity to witness world-class racing up close.
Government officials have called it a milestone not only for Rwanda but for the entire continent. “Kigali is excited to welcome the world’s elite cyclists as they race through the heart of our city,” the official advisory stated.
To ensure smooth operations and the safety of athletes, officials, and spectators, a series of temporary measures will be in place during the championship period.
Key roads along designated race routes will be closed at specific times, with detour routes clearly marked and communicated in advance by traffic authorities.
In a coordinated move to reduce congestion, all schools in Kigali will remain closed from 21 to 28 September, with the Ministry of Education working closely with school administrators and parents to manage the transition.
Public servants based in Kigali will work remotely during the event, except for those providing essential services, which will continue uninterrupted. Private institutions with the capacity for remote operations are also strongly encouraged to do the same.
The government has urged residents and visitors to take advantage of the rare occasion. Fan Zones will be set up across Kigali, giving the public a chance to enjoy the races in a lively atmosphere, complete with big screens and community activities.
The event also serves as an opportunity to showcase Rwanda’s attractions under the Tembera U Rwanda (Visit Rwanda) campaign, inviting visitors to explore the country’s unique destinations, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage.
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime competition happening here in our capital. We invite everyone to plan ahead, support one another, and be part of making history,” the advisory urged. Officials also encouraged residents to embrace the moment, not just as spectators but as ambassadors of Rwanda’s famed hospitality.
