As the countdown to the 2025 Tour du Rwanda winds down, cycling enthusiasts across Africa and beyond are gearing up for what promises to be one of the most competitive editions yet. This year's race, scheduled from February 23 to March 2, carries extra significance as it serves as a precursor to the prestigious UCI World Road Championships set to take place later this year. With top cyclists from around the world converging on Kigali in September, Tour du Rwanda 2025 provides the perfect stage for national and international riders to stake their claim for selection in the global event. Can Rwanda end its drought? Despite the nation's deep-rooted cycling tradition and past successes, Rwandan riders have struggled to dominate Tour du Rwanda since its upgrade to a UCI 2.1 event in 2019. In fact, since then, no Rwandan has won the overall title, and only one, Moise Mugisha, has claimed a stage victory (2022). This year, the pressure is on for the home teams—Team Rwanda, May Stars and Java Inovotec—to reclaim the country’s place on the podium. Head coach David Louvet has named a promising squad of five riders—Mike Uwiduhaye, Didier Munyaneza, Vainqueur Masengesho, Eric Nkundabera, and Moise Mugisha. The team has been rigorously training in high-altitude conditions in Musanze District, followed by a final preparation camp in Bugesera. Equipped with 12 new road bikes provided by the Ministry of Sports, Team Rwanda enters the race with renewed confidence. However, the challenge ahead is daunting. The competition will feature 15 teams, including continental giants such as Eritrea and South Africa, as well as professional squads like Israel-Premier Tech and France’s Team TotalEnergies. Eritrea, in particular, poses a serious threat, boasting top riders such as Henok Mulubrhan, the 2023 champion, who has already declared his intent to win, again. Key stages and course challenges: Tour du Rwanda 2025 consists of eight grueling stages covering 812 kilometers, with the longest—Rukomo to Kayonza—spanning 158 kilometers. The mountainous terrain, known for its punishing climbs and unpredictable weather, often determines the strongest riders. Historically, Rwandan cyclists have excelled in climbing, and if they are to contend for the title, they must capitalize on the mountainous stages, particularly Kigali-Musanze (121km) and Musanze-Rubavu (102km). Endurance will also play a crucial role, especially in back-to-back challenging stages such as Rusizi-Huye (143km) and Nyanza-Canal Olympia (114km). Given the race’s unpredictable nature, teamwork and strategy will be pivotal in navigating through breakaways and defending positions against aggressive international riders. Mulubrhan on a mission: Eritrean champion Mulubrhan has emerged as one of the hot favorites to win the 2025 edition. Returning to Kigali after missing the 2024 race due to injury, the Astana Qazaqstan rider has set his sights on reclaiming the title while riding for Eritrea’s national team. His experience and tactical prowess make him a serious contender. Other strong challengers include riders from Israel-Premier Tech and Lotto Development Team, both of which bring European racing experience to the African circuit. Ethiopia, South Africa, and Angola will also be looking to make their mark in what promises to be an intense battle for the yellow jersey. A glimpse into the future: Kigali 2025 Beyond Tour du Rwanda, this year’s edition serves as a build-up to the historic UCI World Road Championships set for September. For the first time in its 103-year history, the prestigious event will be hosted in Africa, with Rwanda at the center of the global cycling spotlight. The Rwandan government and cycling federation (FERWACY) will leave no stone unturned in ensuring a world-class event. European firms Amaury Sport Organisation (A.S.O) and Golazo have been brought in to support local organizers, aiming to meet international standards in race logistics and management. According to media reports, Kigali is expected to welcome over 20,000 visitors, further cementing Rwanda’s status as a premier sports tourism destination. The Tour du Rwanda presents a golden opportunity for Rwandan cyclists to prove they belong on the world stage. A strong performance here could boost their confidence and morale ahead of the World Championships, where the stakes will be even higher. While the road to victory at Tour du Rwanda 2025 will not be easy, Team Rwanda has a fighting chance, especially if they maximize their strengths in climbing and teamwork. However, they must overcome formidable opponents, including an ambitious Eritrean squad led by Mulubrhan. Regardless of the final outcome, this race is more than just a competition; it is a stepping stone toward Kigali 2025 and a defining moment for African cycling on the global stage. The world is watching, but is Rwanda ready to rise to the occasion?
